A fresh debate has emerged in Arunachal Pradesh after the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO) issued a seven-day notice to authorities, urging strict action against what it described as illegal immigration and unlawful establishments in the state. The organisation addressed the media in Itanagar and said that their concerns are linked to national security and the need for stronger surveillance along sensitive border areas.
APIYO members said they have been observing developments across the country and believe that Arunachal Pradesh must stay alert. They asked the government to verify reports of unauthorized settlements and take constitutional action wherever necessary. The organisation stressed that its stand should not be misunderstood as being against any religion. According to APIYO, its campaign is about protecting indigenous rights and ensuring that the law is followed by everyone living in the state.
APIYO leaders also said they want the issue to be handled peacefully and within legal boundaries, adding that communal harmony must be maintained at all times.
The remarks, however, sparked a response from the Muslim community in the capital region. On November 13, Capital Jama Masjid PRO and community representative Giah Limpeah Sultan held a press interaction at the Arunachal Press Club to clarify their position. Sultan firmly rejected allegations about the presence of illegal madrasas in the state and said such claims create unnecessary confusion. 
He said that Muslims in Arunachal Pradesh have always respected state laws and enjoyed peaceful relations with indigenous communities. “The masjid is our heart and a sacred place of worship. Do not target it or drag it into unnecessary controversy,” Sultan said.
He urged organizations to be careful while making public remarks so that misunderstandings do not take root among communities that have lived together peacefully for decades.
Sultan said the community stands against illegal immigration but will not accept broad generalizations that paint all Muslims with the same brush. “Target illegal immigrants, not Muslims,” he added. He warned that mixing up the two creates serious social tension and harms ordinary citizens who follow the law.
Calling for calm, Sultan appealed for unity and reminded all groups that Arunachal Pradesh has a long record of communal harmony. He said responsible dialogue and cooperation are important to keep that tradition alive, especially at a time when the state is seeing sharper debates on identity and security.
Both sides have expressed the need for peace, and observers believe that open communication between community leaders and authorities will be crucial in the coming days as the matter continues to draw public attention.
