Itanagar: Normal life in Ziro came to a halt on Tuesday, October 21, as a 24-hour bandh jointly called by the United Youth Joint Steering Committee (UYJSC) and the Bamin Michi Youth Association (BMYA) brought the town to a standstill.
The shutdown, which began at 5:00 am and will continue until 5:00 am on Wednesday, October 22, led to the closure of markets, offices, and public institutions, while transport services remained largely suspended. Most residents stayed indoors, with streets wearing a deserted look throughout the day.
The bandh was called in protest against the ongoing construction of the Unity Gate, which the BMYA claims is being carried out without proper consultation with local landowners. The association has also alleged that the project’s location was altered from the site originally approved in 2015.
In a statement, the BMYA clarified that the agitation is not communal in nature and assured that it remains committed to maintaining harmony. It said discussions have already been held with the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) and the Joram family to ensure peaceful dialogue while pursuing its demands.
The association has urged authorities to build the Unity Gate at the initially approved site and to engage with affected landowners before resuming construction.
Despite the bandh, essential and emergency services, including healthcare, have remained functional. However, the Apatani Youth Association (AYA) and the Apatani Students’ Union (ASU) have opposed the shutdown, appealing to citizens to continue their daily activities.
Security forces have been deployed across key locations to prevent unrest. While the situation has remained peaceful, tension persists in parts of Ziro, with bandh supporters seen patrolling roads to ensure compliance with the call.
