Student body calls Nyato Dukam’s remarks ‘immature’ and ‘irresponsible’, rejecting his warning that the state’s reservation policy could face legal hurdles
Itanagar: The All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) has strongly criticised Arunachal Pradesh Industries and IPR Minister Nyato Dukam over his recent remarks on the state’s 80:20 job reservation policy, calling them “immature” and “irresponsible” while demanding that he clarify his statement and apologise to the union and the people of the state within 12 hours.
Dukam, who also heads the state government-appointed committee examining demands to abolish the 80:20 reservation ratio, had recently cautioned that any attempt to alter the existing policy could invite legal challenges. He warned that if the matter reached the courts, there was a possibility of the entire reservation framework being struck down.
Reacting sharply, AAPSU said such remarks were inappropriate for the chairman of a committee tasked with reviewing the issue. The union alleged that the minister’s statement created unnecessary fear and confusion instead of offering legal clarity, and argued that he should have remained neutral until consultations with all stakeholders were completed.
Rejecting Dukam’s concerns, AAPSU maintained that reservation in state government recruitment falls within the constitutional powers of the state under Articles 15(4) and 16(4), which permit special provisions for Scheduled Tribes. It asserted that there is no legal barrier to revising the existing reservation ratio in line with Arunachal Pradesh’s predominantly indigenous tribal population.
AAPSU president Meje Taku said neighbouring states have implemented similar reservation systems for years without judicial intervention. He accused the minister of undermining the review process through premature public comments and said the committee should function with legal rigour and institutional responsibility.
Reiterating that the abolition of the 80:20 reservation ratio remains its foremost demand, AAPSU urged the state government to ensure a fair and transparent review while insisting that Dukam apologise for remarks that, according to the union, have demoralised stakeholders.
Also Read: Vietnam Boat Tragedy: Embassy Confirms All 15 Dead Are Indians, Releases Victims’ List
