Arunachal Authorities Seal 15 Mosque Structures After Local Group’s Objections

Arunachal Authorities Seal 15 Mosque Structures After Local Group’s Objections
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Authorities in India’s Arunachal Pradesh state have taken action against 15 mosque structures in the Itanagar Capital Region after a local indigenous youth group raised objections over what officials described as unauthorised religious constructions.

According to state government officials cited by Indian media, the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation had earlier raised concerns with Chief Minister Pema Khandu over alleged unauthorised mosque structures in the capital region. The government then directed the local administration to identify the structures and act according to law.

State spokesperson P. D. Sona said around 15 mosque structures were identified. He said 12 were sealed or vacated after legal procedures, while the remaining three were later sealed following a review meeting with the group’s leadership.

The issue triggered protests and a bandh in the Itanagar Capital Region, disrupting daily life, transport, businesses and public services.

Muslim community representatives, according to the original local claims, have described the move as discriminatory and said several mosques had been built over the years with community support and local consent. They also argued that authorities should apply rules equally to all religious structures.

Officials, however, said the action was linked to unauthorised construction and broader concerns over demographic change, indigenous rights and regulation of the Inner Line Permit system.

The episode has heightened concerns among Muslims in the region, with activists warning that political tensions around migration and identity may discourage minority communities from publicly challenging official actions.