Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, 8 Oct: The Miss Arunachal Organisation (MAO) has terminated the eligibility of one of its contestants for the Miss Arunachal Contest 2026, Dirang edition, following a controversy surrounding her alleged polygamous relationship.
The MAO on Thursday issued a formal notice, stating that the decision was taken after reviewing and verifying information brought to the organisation's attention through videos circulating on social media, including Facebook. This daily could not get a reaction from the contestant in question.
"A social media user had publicly tagged the organisation in a post, raising concerns over an alleged polygamous relationship involving the contestant and her husband and sought its intervention," the MOA stated.
The pageant organiser added that it examined the information and circumstances surrounding the controversy and concluded that they were inconsistent with the eligibility, conduct and participation requirements prescribed under the contest's rules.
"Upon completion of the verification process, the organisation has determined that the circumstances are inconsistent with the eligibility, conduct, and participation requirements prescribed under the rules and standards governing the Miss Arunachal contest," the notice stated.
The organisation, however, did not disclose the specific findings of its verification or provide supporting details regarding the allegations.
Citing Clause 3, Part 1(b) of its rules and regulations, the organisation announced immediate termination of the contestant's candidature and participation in the 2026 edition of the beauty pageant.
The notice further directed the contestant to cease representing herself as a contestant of Miss Arunachal 2026, stating that all rights, privileges, titles and opportunities arising from her participation stand withdrawn.
Clarifying its position, the organisation maintained that neither its management nor its team had encouraged, promoted, supported or endorsed any conduct contrary to the values, dignity, social responsibility and ethical standards expected of contestants.
It also appealed to the public, supporters and well-wishers not to hold the entire organisation or the remaining participants responsible for the circumstances involving an individual contestant.
"There are 25 other contestants who have dedicated their valuable time, effort, commitment, and hard work to participate on this platform and to showcase their respective talents and abilities," the organisation said.
It stressed that the aspirations and efforts of the remaining contestants should be recognised independently and should not be overshadowed by the controversy.
Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining transparency, discipline, dignity and credibility, the organisation said appropriate action would be taken against any participant found violating its prescribed rules and standards in the future as well.
The notice was signed by MAO managing director Tai Roket and executive director Mayir Taipodia.
The organisation said the Miss Arunachal platform was established to provide young women with opportunities to showcase their talent, confidence, intelligence, creativity and potential while upholding the dignity and reputation associated with the title.
On verifying, the man involved in the viral video has been identified as Sunil Bachung from Nafra in Bichom district.
Interestingly, Bachung and his wife Ebi Loya, entered into a mutual separation agreement on 13 May, 2026, with Bachung agreeing to pay Rs 2 crore in alimony within two months.