Pasighat: In a significant political shift within the Pasighat Municipal Council in Arunachal Pradesh, six out of eight councilors have defected from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the National People’s Party (NPP) to join the Indian National Congress (INC).
This marks a potential substantial loss of power for the BJP in the local municipal body of Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh.
The six councilors—Rebeka Panyang Megu (Ward-4), Dy. Chief Councilor Yalop Nyigang Yomso (Ward-1), Ponung Radeng Saring (Ward-5), Mumcy Dupak Lollen (Ward-7), Okeng Tayeng (Ward-8), and Kaling Doruk (Ward-3)—had previously attempted to impeach the sitting Chief Councilor, Okiam Moyong Borang.
Despite their repeated complaints and impeachment motions, the BJP ignored their demands, leading to their eventual defection first to the NPP and now to the Congress.
On August 7, the six councilors officially informed the Deputy Commissioner of Pasighat about their decision to join the Congress.
Their membership was confirmed by District Congress Committee (DCC) President Allen Perme, who expressed optimism about the strengthening of party activities in Pasighat and the broader East Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh.
Perme highlighted ongoing issues in the execution of smart city projects in Pasighat, citing rampant misuse of funds and poor quality in construction works, including drainage systems, sector roads, culverts, market buildings, parks, and stadiums.
These issues, discovered through Right to Information (RTI) documents, have led to numerous complaints from local residents, organizations, and associations.
Welcoming the new councilors, Perme urged them to prioritize the quality of work within the Pasighat Municipal Council and to work together for the overall development of Pasighat as a Smart City.
He also hinted that the Congress would soon announce new chief and deputy councilors, following the due procedures and formalities, as directed by the state Congress leadership.
With the defection, the BJP is left with only two councilors in the Pasighat Municipal Council: Chief Councilor Okiam Moyong Borang (Ward-2) and Oyin Gao (Ward-6).