Tribal Body Alleges PLA Expansion in Arunachal

Allegations by a tribal organisation in Arunachal Pradesh that the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) has established military infrastructure inside Indian territory near the India-China border have triggered a fresh controversy, prompting an official denial from the Indian Army and an inquiry by the Arunachal Pradesh government.

The Nah Welfare Society (NWS), representing the Nah community in Taksing of Upper Subansiri district, submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner on June 26 alleging that the PLA has gradually expanded into areas traditionally used by local communities over the past 10 to 15 years. The organisation claimed Chinese forces have constructed roads, bridges and military camps in Oying (Asaphila), Paniar (Chujarta), Marpan (Marnafe), Potrang Lake and Tindingtang. It also submitted photographs which it says support the allegations.

According to the memorandum, the alleged expansion has affected traditional grazing lands, hunting grounds, fishing areas and collection of forest produce used by the Nah community. The organisation appealed to both the Centre and the Arunachal Pradesh government for immediate intervention, describing the issue as one affecting indigenous livelihoods as well as national security.

The allegations were first reported by media based in Arunachal Pradesh before being picked up by national publications. At the time the reports first appeared, the claims had not been independently verified by any government agency.

The Indian Army subsequently issued a statement rejecting the reports.

"We have seen some media reports alleging recent encroachment by the Chinese PLA and setting up of camps in Arunachal Pradesh. These reports are incorrect and without any basis."

The Army said there had been no recent Chinese encroachment or establishment of alleged PLA camps inside Arunachal Pradesh and termed the reports baseless.

Amid the conflicting claims, Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung said the state government would seek a report from the district administration and, if necessary, constitute a committee to verify the allegations before taking any further action.

The issue has also drawn political reactions. In a recorded video statement released through ArunBhoomi News, former Arunachal Pradesh MLA and former Parliamentary Secretary (Home) Paknga Bage described the representation submitted by the Nah Welfare Society as "deeply disturbing". He urged the state government to immediately examine the matter and press the Centre to respond, saying the allegations had caused concern among residents of Upper Subansiri district. Separately, Congress leader Pawan Khera shared media reports on X and called on the Union government to clarify its position on the issue. These statements are political responses and do not independently verify the allegations.

The Taksing sector, located along a remote stretch of the India-China frontier in Upper Subansiri district, remains one of the most inaccessible border regions, making independent verification of developments difficult.

As of Tuesday, no official inquiry report had been released. The allegations made by the Nah Welfare Society remain unverified, while the Indian Army continues to deny that any recent PLA encroachment or military camps have been established inside Arunachal Pradesh.