The Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO) has announced a long-distance foot march, titled the ‘Delhi Chalo Abhiyan,’ scheduled to commence on January 31 from Itanagar. Led by APIYO President Taro Sonam Liyak, the march aims to traverse the distance to New Delhi to petition the Central Government for urgent intervention regarding illegal immigration and unauthorized settlements that the group claims threaten the survival of indigenous communities.
Context of the Movement
The decision to initiate this march follows a series of unsuccessful attempts by the organization to resolve its grievances at the state level. Since late 2025, APIYO has organized multiple democratic protests, including rallies on October 24 and December 27, and a state-wide bandh on December 9. Despite submitting a formal memorandum to the Arunachal Pradesh administration on October 6, 2025, the organization maintains that the government’s response has been insufficient to curb the growth of unauthorized settlements.
Demographic and Security Concerns
APIYO asserts that the influx of illegal immigrants has created a demographic shift that undermines the socio-cultural fabric of the region. Liyak describes the situation as an existential threat, emphasizing that unauthorized settlements on indigenous land present not only a resource competition issue but also a long-term security risk to the native population. The organization argues that these shifts are altering the unique identity of Arunachal Pradesh, necessitating federal oversight.
The Logistics of the March
The ‘Delhi Chalo’ campaign is designed as a peaceful, long-haul trek starting from Akashdeep, Itanagar. The route is planned to cross into Assam at Banderdewa, passing through key districts including Lakhimpur, Tezpur, and Kokrajhar before heading toward the national capital. APIYO leadership has explicitly requested cooperation from the Assam government to maintain public order and ensure the march remains peaceful throughout its transit across state lines.
Industry and Political Implications
For the North Eastern region, this mobilization signals a growing frustration among indigenous youth organizations regarding the efficacy of local administrative measures. If the march gains significant public or media traction, it could place pressure on the Central Government to re-evaluate border management and land rights policies in the Northeast. Furthermore, the event underscores the potential for future civil unrest if systemic concerns regarding migration and land security remain unaddressed by state authorities.
Looking Ahead
Observers will be monitoring the march as it progresses through Assam, specifically looking for how local law enforcement manages the influx of protesters. The ultimate test for the movement will be whether the Central Government agrees to formally engage with APIYO representatives upon their arrival in New Delhi. The success or failure of this dialogue could set a precedent for how indigenous groups across the region voice their grievances in the coming years.
