ToI issue settled, Nyishis lift ban on circulation of paper in Arunachal

Itanagar, Feb 18 (ANI): Arunachal Pradesh seems to be moving on the right track since Nabam Tuki took over reins of the state in November 2011. His government on Saturday settled one of the most contentious issues that had snowballed into a major controversy, paralyzing life on several occasions, particularly in Itanagar.

The Times of India/ Pradeep Thakur issue was closed on Saturday after lasting over nine months, with Thakur himself tendering an emotional apology to the Nyishi community, which accepted it, reflecting their greatness - 'forget and forgive'.

Thakur, who came all the way from Delhi, said he himself and the entire ToI group was pained for the suffering caused to Arunachal Pradesh because of the news item that had appeared in the May 4, 2011 edition of the Times of India's web portal, leaving a trail of social-economic devastation and even claimed a life.

"I tender my unconditional apology from the core of my heart for the sufferings caused to the state's civil society, particularly the Nyishi community," he said.

In the presence of Nyishi intellectuals, including Nyishi Elite Society (NES) president Bengia Tolum, All Nyishi Students' Union president Sikka Gapak, Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and Member of Parliament Takam Sanjoy, Thakur clarified that there was no malafide intention to hurt the sentiment of the community.

"I, along with the ToI, after tendering videographic and written apology, and through repeated clarifications, tried to assuage the heart sentiments of the community. I'm here only to tender a personal apology, as I realized the mistake. Nyishis are equally capable, and fortunately, a Nyishi heads the state now, which would change the perception about Nyishis," Thakur said without mincing any words.

"Nyishihs, with their big hearts, have accepted your apology, the chapter is closed. Steps would be taken to withdraw all legal proceedings initiated against you, the ban on circulation of all publications of the Times of India Group stands lifted," announced Sanjoy after Thakur, Tolum, and Gapak signed a written agreement, which was also read out by the MP.

Tolum and Tuki also announced in one voice that 'we are unanimous with the agreement' and the issue is settled for once and all'.

The NES president said: "We were hurt because of the word- Nyishis don't enjoy good rapport with other communities - as we are always friendly with our neighbours and the community refused to accept your written and videographic apology for you to come personally and assuage our hurt sentiment. We are not bad people as the news painted," he pointed.

"We are confident you would sprinkle the water of Ganges to purify our minds," he added.

The web portal story sparked a fight by the NES and the ANSU for their community, resulting in downfall of one government and a series of violent shutdown calls, bringing life to a standstill in Arunachal Pradesh. (ANI)