Itanagar, Oct 17: The Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) has expressed deep concern over the unchecked proliferation of bars and nightclubs in the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR), citing potential links to rising cases of immoral activities and social issues affecting women and adolescent girls.
An APSCW team, led by Chairperson Taga Yalem Burang along with a Member and the Member Secretary, today met ICR Deputy Commissioner Toko Babu and discussed the matter in detail. The delegation highlighted alarming reports of adolescent girls being engaged or trapped in immoral activities, which could be contributing to the increase in cases of HIV/AIDS and other social problems in the state.
The APSCW pointed out that several bars and nightclubs are operating throughout the night in violation of government guidelines. Referring to the DC order No. DC-ICC-17016/3/2025-JUD dated 11/02/2025, the Commission emphasized the need to strictly enforce prescribed opening and closing timings and verify customer age through Aadhaar or valid ID proof to ensure that only adults are served.
The Commission urged the district administration to ensure regular inspections of bars and nightclubs, especially within ICR, to curb illegal operations beyond permitted hours.
It also called for the strict enforcement of the Arunachal Pradesh Tenancy Act, 2022 and the NDPS Act, 1985, urging landlords and flat owners to prevent illegal or immoral activities such as drug use, illegal gatherings, and other anti-social acts in their premises. It further suggested carrying out joint inspections by the police and other designated enforcement departments in suspected locations from time to time.
Expressing concern over the rising involvement of underage girls in immoral and exploitative activities, the Commission warned of the interconnected link between drugs, AIDS, and flesh trade, terming it a grave social challenge that demands urgent intervention.
Both the DC Capital and the Superintendents of Police of Itanagar and Naharlagun acknowledged the seriousness of the issue, identifying unemployment, lack of social security, family breakdowns, and economic disparities as contributing factors. They assured that routine checks and preventive measures are being carried out, but stressed the need for long-term policy interventions. They also suggested that research and academic studies on this social issue could help in designing effective redressal mechanisms.
The APSCW has urged the State Government to frame a comprehensive policy for the rehabilitation and reintegration of rescued victims by providing counseling, vocational training, skill development, and employment support, enabling them to rebuild their lives with dignity.