Editor,
I write this letter not as a political supporter, nor as a critic, but as a deeply disturbed citizen of Arunachal Pradesh who witnessed the incident that unfolded on Friday at the AAPSU office. What I saw has shaken my faith and forced me to reflect on where we are heading as a society, especially at a time when elections are approaching.
Stone pelting from both sides, chaos in the name of leadership, and even a firing incident – these were scenes I never imagined I would witness in an institution meant to represent student voices. Amidst the confusion, I saw a man hiding behind a Tempo, bleeding profusely, trying desperately to save his life. In that moment, a terrifying thought crossed my mind: what if the injury had been fatal? What if a life had been lost? Or someone left in a coma – just because tempers replaced reason?
For a moment, it felt less like a democratic state and more like a war zone. This is not the Arunachal we are proud of. This is not the legacy we want to pass on to the next generation.
Student leaders are not just election candidates; they are role models. They shape mindsets, attitudes, and values. If violence, intimidation, and fear are the tools being used today, what kind of future are we preparing for? How can we expect peace, progress, and unity when intolerance and aggression dominate our campuses and streets?
Let us be very clear: violence has never been the answer – never in history, and never in the future. Elections come and go, positions change hands, but the damage done to human life, trust, and social harmony can be permanent.
I humbly appeal to every aspiring candidate, every student leader, and every common citizen of our state to pause and reflect. Power achieved through fear is fragile. Leadership earned through wisdom, restraint, and compassion is what truly lasts.
Let us disagree, debate, and contest – but let us do so with dignity. Arunachal deserves better. Our students deserve better. Our future deserves better.
Bage Kamsi,
H Sector, Itanagar