New Arunachal armed group’s members told to come overground

The Arunachal Pradesh police on Friday (January 17, 2024) asked the members of a newly-floated armed group to come overground and return to mainstream life, guaranteeing that they will not face any legal action if they do so voluntarily.

The new group is the United Tani Army (UTA), which was formed in December 2024. It opposes the construction of mega dams in the State and the issuance of Scheduled Tribe certificates to non-native tribal people, apart from seeking the ejection of Chakma-Hajong refugees from Arunachal Pradesh. The UTA is headed by Anthony Doke, who was previously chief of the short-lived National Liberation Council of Taniland, an extremist group that was nipped in the bud.

“Return voluntarily to your families and communities. No legal action will be taken against you if you come forward on your own,” the police said in a statement to UTA members. “We understand that many of you may have been misled or pressured into joining. If you step back now, we will provide you with support to reintegrate into society and pursue a better future,” it added.

Recruiter arrested

The State’s Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Chukhu Apa said the group has been recruiting some youths to train and carry out subversive activities. The police established the identities of several individuals recruited by the UTA after arresting a man named Tana Hasi from the State’s capital Itanagar on January 15.

“Investigations revealed that he [Hasi] was the main recruiter and recruited young individuals, facilitating their transportation to camps associated with banned organisations. He has been actively scouting for recruits and the police prevented one such youth from joining such an organisation,” Mr. Apa said.

Youth lured via social media

Noting that social media platforms and local networks are being used to persuade youth to join the UTA, the police said the case highlights the dangerous activities of the organisation that seeks to destabilise peace and exploit the potential of youth for violent purposes. The police advised parents to remain vigilant and guide their children away from harmful influences.

“The police are committed to dismantling recruitment networks like those operated by UTA and ensuring peace in the State. We urge the public to stay alert and report any suspicious activities,” Mr. Apa said.