Archive · 24 Dec 2025
Nativist Group Targets Muslims in Arunachal Pradesh
A group called APIYO in Arunachal Pradesh has been targeting mosques, demanding to see their legal documents, and even vandalizing some.
They say they are worried about too many Muslim migrants coming into the state and taking over jobs and businesses.
Two mosques have been sealed so far.
The group's actions have been supported by another organization linked to the RSS, which has been spreading similar worries among the local tribal people.
The police say they have not found any illegal migrants, but the group continues to raise concerns.
APIYO members targeted mosques in Itanagar and Naharlagun, demanding documents and vandalizing properties.
Two mosques have been sealed by authorities for allegedly being built without proper permits.
APIYO claims that Muslim migrants are dominating economic activities and pose a threat to the indigenous population.
The group's actions have been linked to the eviction drives against Bengali Muslims in neighboring Assam.
The APIYO's campaign has been supported by the Indigenous Faiths and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh, backed by the RSS.
- Who
- Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organization (APIYO) and its members
- What
- Targeting and vandalizing mosques, demanding documents, and calling for their closure
- When
- Since October 2023, with notable incidents on November 15 and November 22
- Where
- Itanagar and Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh
- Why
- Fear of increasing Muslim migrant population and their economic activities, triggered by eviction drives in Assam
- Group Name
- Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organization (APIYO)
- Mosques Targeted
- Itanagar Jama Masjid, Capital Jama Masjid
- Mosques Sealed
- 2 out of 8 in the Itanagar Capital Region
- Muslim Population in Arunachal Pradesh
- 1.95% (27,045 residents as per 2011 Census)
- Inner Line Permit Violators Detected
- 8,936 since January 2023
- ILP Violators Externed
- 7,351 since January 2023
- Estimated Migrant Bengali Muslims
- 13,000 (workers and businessmen)