Crisis of credibility: Corruption and conflict cloud Arunachal’s apex student body

By Neha Desai 

The All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) is the apex student body of Arunachal Pradesh, representing the interests of students across the state. Established to advocate educational reform, social justice, and youth empowerment, AAPSU has historically played an influential role in public life, often acting as a bridge between society and the government. 

Over the years, it has emerged as a powerful platform for student voices. However, in recent times, the organisation has drawn growing criticism for internal dysfunctions, including allegations of corruption, violence, scandals involving office-bearers, and a broader erosion of moral credibility.

One of the most persistent criticisms concerns corruption and the so-called “money game” that has come to dominate AAPSU elections. Several media reports and public discussions suggest that electoral contests have degenerated into high-stakes financial battles, with candidates allegedly spending anywhere between Rs 5 crore and Rs 8 crore to secure votes. This practice is widely regarded as an open secret, fundamentally undermining the democratic spirit of a student organisation. 

As a result, AAPSU is increasingly viewed by sections of the public not as a force against corruption, but as a symbol of it. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has publicly condemned these practices, calling them “very sad” and warning that government intervention may become inevitable if such excesses continue. Critics also point to the growing interference of external political forces, arguing that AAPSU is being reduced to a money-making platform rather than a body committed to student welfare. Concerns have been raised about the role of older individuals, commonly referred to as “jajas,” who are accused of manipulating elections through financial influence, thereby diverting the organisation from genuine student concerns. Increasingly, voices within and outside the student community are demanding that student organisations be run by students alone, without interference from those who no longer belong to academic life.

Violence and internal conflict have also become recurring features of AAPSU elections. Campaign periods are often marred by clashes, intimidation, and disorder. A particularly disturbing incident occurred on January 30 in Itanagar, when two presidential candidates, Debia Muj and Meje Taku, were involved in stone-pelting and alleged firing at the AAPSU office. The situation spiralled out of control and normalcy was restored only after the intervention of security forces. Such incidents point to deeper systemic failures and suggest that the growing financial stakes in elections have intensified rivalry to dangerous levels. 

Alongside this, allegations of tribal bias have further eroded unity within the organisation. Critics claim that AAPSU is increasingly dominated by specific tribes, with candidates from certain regions allegedly being excluded from contesting elections. This perception has fuelled resentment among minority and remote-area tribes and has led to calls for resistance, deepening divisions within what was once seen as a unifying platform for Arunachal Pradesh’s youth.

Frequent scandals involving candidates have further damaged the credibility of the organisation. During the recent election period, serious allegations were levelled against one of the candidates, Debia Muj, by a woman who accused him of concealing his marital status while maintaining a relationship with her for several months. She alleged that he later threatened her and her family using secretly recorded videos to prevent her from speaking out. The allegations triggered intense public debate. 

While some initially dismissed the claims as politically motivated attempts to tarnish the candidate’s image, the subsequent release of photographs and videos by the woman added fuel to the controversy. The episode has raised serious questions about personal conduct, accountability, and the impact of such scandals on public trust in a student organisation that claims moral authority.

The cumulative effect of corruption, violence, factionalism, and inadequate responses to scandals poses a serious threat to AAPSU’s credibility as a representative body for students. Former leaders, civil society members, and public figures have called for urgent reforms, including stricter age limits, transparent electoral processes, and firm action against monetary influence. 

For AAPSU to regain public trust, it must refocus on genuine student issues and demonstrate a clear commitment to integrity and accountability. As Arunachal Pradesh navigates rapid social and economic change, a reformed and principled AAPSU could play a constructive role in shaping a safer and more ethical environment for its youth. Without serious introspection and reform, however, the organisation risks becoming synonymous with the very problems it was created to challenge.

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Neha Desai is an independent writer with a long-standing interest in social research, with a particular focus on society, religion, race, and women’s issues