The Arunachal Democratic Party (ADP) has officially merged with the Indian National Congress (INC) during a mass induction ceremony in Arunachal Pradesh, with all ADP members joining the Congress. ADP president Tami Pangu cited ideological alignment and belief in the Congress’s commitment to democracy and constitutional values as the driving forces behind the merger. The ADP has no representation in the state Assembly, and therefore, the merger will not impact Congress’s strength in the region, where they currently hold one MLA seat.
Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bosiram Siram welcomed the new members and promised them equal responsibility within the party. Pangu emphasized that this alliance aims to protect democratic institutions and enhance constitutional governance, while also assuring that they would address critical state issues under the Congress banner, like reviewing Article 371(H), hydropower project concerns, and illegal mining allegations.
The leaders addressed significant challenges such as unemployment, inflation, and corruption, characterizing these as part of a governance crisis needing urgent action. Pangu acknowledged former Chief Minister Gegong Apang for facilitating their entry into Congress and appreciated the leadership of AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, recognizing Siram’s opposition to the ruling BJP as influential in their decision. They envision this merger as a “new chapter” in Arunachal Pradesh politics, committing to people-centric governance, transparency, and inclusive development.
