Digboi: Acting on a representation from the All Bordumsa Singpho Students’ Union (ABSSU), the Bordumsa administration in Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang district has ordered liquor and meat shops to remain closed for three days during the Sangken festival.
According to an order issued by Additional Deputy Commissioner R.D. Thungon, all liquor outlets and meat shops within Bordumsa Circle will remain shut from April 14 to April 16 to maintain the cultural and religious sanctity of the festival.
ABSSU president Jowli Sikhet said the union had sought administrative intervention after due deliberation to ensure a peaceful and spiritually conducive atmosphere for the celebration of Sangken, a sacred Theravada Buddhist festival observed in parts of Northeast India, including Arunachal Pradesh.
He said the move was aimed at preserving the sanctity of the occasion and fostering an environment of harmony and reverence.
Officials said the administration acted promptly on the representation, directing the officer-in-charge of Bordumsa Police Station and local Tax and Excise authorities to ensure strict enforcement of the order.
The development comes soon after the reconstitution of the 18-member ABSSU committee, which has undertaken social initiatives in the area. The latest step has drawn appreciation from sections of the local community for promoting socio-cultural values.
Residents have largely welcomed the decision, describing it as a timely measure. The temporary restrictions are expected to contribute to a festival atmosphere marked by sobriety, devotion and collective harmony.