Northeast Desk, 26th September: Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Shri Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati’s planned visit to Arunachal Pradesh was abruptly halted on September 26, as local authorities intervened due to widespread protests against his Gau Dhwaj Sthapana Bharat Yatra. The spiritual leader arrived at Donyi Polo Airport in Hollongi via a chartered flight, where he was met with opposition from members of the All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU).
In light of the tense situation, the Papum Pare district administration urged the Jagadguru and his entourage to leave the area, citing the sensitive nature of the visit. The yatra, aimed at promoting a ban on cow slaughter in northeastern states, has sparked significant unrest among local communities.
AAPSU representatives expressed their concerns during a media briefing, emphasizing that while they opposed the yatra, they were not against any religion or individual. General Secretary Ritum Tali articulated their stance, stating, “Sending back the spiritual leader may send a negative message to the nation. However, this cow protection rally is against the sentiments of Arunachalis.”
Tali further highlighted the cultural significance of cattle in local traditions, noting, “Here, we tribals also sacrifice cows when somebody falls sick, thereby using the cow for protection.” He challenged the notion of cows being revered as mothers, arguing, “If you call a cow a mother, I challenge you to make the cow reproduce a human child, and then I will call it a mother. For us, cows are simply animals.”
The union representatives cautioned against what they viewed as a cultural imposition, stating, “Don’t manipulate us, innocent indigenous tribal people. You can preach wherever you want, but not here. We are not against it, but we don’t want it here.”
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding cultural practices and beliefs in Arunachal Pradesh, reflecting broader discussions on the relationship between traditional customs and external influences.
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