Editor,

The reports regarding the abuse of Mising workers from Assam in Arunachal Pradesh are grave and cannot be brushed aside. A comprehensive, independent, and transparent investigation is imperative, and those responsible-whether contractors, middlemen, company officials, or any other individuals involved-must face the full force of the law.

Let it be absolutely clear: accountability lies with the perpetrators, not with the people of Arunachal Pradesh as a whole. Crimes are committed by individuals, not by entire communities. Any attempt to portray this incident as a reflection of Arunachal or its indigenous people is both dishonest and malicious.

However, it is equally concerning that certain elements within the Mising community in Assam have repeatedly sought to vilify and misrepresent Arunachal Pradesh, particularly over the state’s lawful enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system. The ILP is a legally protected safeguard for the indigenous peoples of Arunachal Pradesh and has nothing whatsoever to do with the alleged criminal actions of private individuals.

The people of Arunachal Pradesh deserve answers. The state government, district administration, law enforcement agencies, project authorities, and the company concerned must immediately disclose the facts surrounding this incident. Silence, delays, or attempts to downplay the matter will only deepen public suspicion.

Given the seriousness of the allegations, the Central Government must intervene and ensure a thorough investigation. If labour exploitation, abuse, illegal recruitment networks, or institutional negligence are involved, they must be exposed without fear or favour.

This case also raises troubling questions. Is this an isolated incident, or merely the tip of a much larger problem? Are powerful interests operating behind the scenes? Has anyone in authority looked the other way? These questions demand answers, and the public has every right to seek them.

Manu Somare