Press Release Dua calls on CM and DCM at Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly

ITANAGAR, March 9: In a high-level engagement at the Chief Minister’s office within the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly today, a delegation from the Dream for United Arunachal (DUA), led by Chairman Dr. Gumjum Haider, who is a former State Information Commissioner (SIC), called on the Honorable Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu. During the meeting, the DUA leadership formally submitted a petition seeking a comprehensive statewide ban on tobacco, gutka, and pan masala products, citing an escalating public health crisis that threatens the state’s youth and future. The organization, which operates on a "Pan Arunachal" framework to foster tribal integration, emphasized that the health and dignity of the people must remain the government’s paramount priority.

The DUA Chairman pointed out that the widespread availability of these toxic substances has led to devastating health consequences, such as oral cancer and heart disease, while also causing severe degradation to public infrastructure. He further highlighted that public spitting and littering have defaced essential spaces, including hospitals, educational institutions, and secretariats, which directly contradicts the vision of a "Clean and Vibrant Arunachal."

Furthermore, Haider maintained that these modern addictions are entirely foreign to the indigenous culture and rich heritage of the state. He argued that such habits actively undermine traditional values of vitality and strength, asserting that true progress for the state should be measured by the physical health of its citizens and the cleanliness of its environment.

Following the meeting with the Chief Minister, the DUA team also called on the Deputy Chief minister, Chowna Mein at the Legislative Assembly Office to apprise him of the formal petition and the urgent need for a unified administrative response to this public health challenge.

To address these concerns, the DUA urged the State Government to implement massive sensitization programs and empower local leaders, including Corporators and Panchayat representatives, to ensure the movement reaches the remotest villages. The organization expressed its readiness to collaborate with the administration to facilitate these initiatives. Chief Minister Pema Khandu acknowledged the interaction as "meaningful," commending the group for their vision and aspirations for a stronger, more united, and disciplined Arunachal.