Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale, formally inaugurated the Arunachal Pradesh unit of the Republican Party of India (Athawale) [RPI(A)] in a vibrant ceremony held in Lekang, Namsai district. The launch marks a significant expansion of the party into the Northeast, with a clear focus on promoting social justice, equitable governance, and empowerment of marginalised communities, drawing inspiration from the ideals of Dr B.R. Ambedkar.
The event, attended by party leaders, local dignitaries, and enthusiastic supporters, underscores RPI(A)’s commitment to grassroots politics in Arunachal Pradesh. Athawale, who serves as the national president of the party, announced that RPI(A) would field eight candidates in the upcoming panchayat elections, signalling the party’s intent to actively participate in local body polls and strengthen its organisational footprint across the state.
A Pledge to Social Justice and Ambedkarite Ideology
In his keynote address, Athawale emphasised the party’s unwavering allegiance to the Indian Constitution, which he described as a “powerful document that gives true value to democracy.” He reiterated RPI(A)’s foundational ethos rooted in Dr Ambedkar’s vision of social equality, aimed at uplifting Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), persons with disabilities, transgender individuals, orphans, and other vulnerable sections of society.
“The Republican Party of India (Athawale) is dedicated to bringing good governance to Arunachal Pradesh,” Athawale declared. “We owe our existence to the Constitution, and our mission is to ensure that the benefits of development reach every eligible beneficiary without discrimination.”
Athawale highlighted the party’s robust national presence, noting that RPI(A) already has an organisational setup in 27 states. Under the leadership of the newly appointed Arunachal Pradesh unit president, Likha Saaya, the party aims to build a strong base in the state by focusing on local issues such as economic inclusion, women’s empowerment, and support for farmers and workers.
Spotlight on Northeast Development and National Progress
Athawale commended the BJP-led NDA government’s transformative initiatives for the Northeast, including Arunachal Pradesh, stating that the Centre is prioritising infrastructure, connectivity, and socio-economic upliftment in the region. He outlined the remarkable economic strides made under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, pointing out that India has climbed from the 10th largest economy in 2014 to the 4th today, with ambitions to surpass Germany and become the third-largest within the next year.
Addressing contemporary challenges, the Union Minister assured that the government is actively working to ameliorate issues faced by marginalised groups. “From providing welfare schemes for the underprivileged to fostering inclusive growth, our efforts are geared towards creating a just society,” he added.
Strategic Entry into Arunachal’s Political Arena
The launch comes at a pivotal time, with Arunachal Pradesh gearing up for its Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) and municipal elections on December 15, 2025. RPI(A)’s decision to contest with eight candidates in the panchayat polls reflects its strategy to penetrate local governance structures, advocating for policies that promote social justice and community-driven development. The party envisions collaborating with like-minded forces to amplify the voices of Arunachal’s diverse tribal and non-tribal populations.
Likha Saaya, the state unit president, expressed optimism about the party’s prospects, vowing to mobilise youth and women into active roles. “This is a new chapter for RPI(A) in Arunachal. We will work tirelessly to ensure that Ambedkar’s dream of equality becomes a reality here,” Saaya stated.
The ceremony concluded with pledges from party workers to uphold constitutional values and drive inclusive governance. As RPI(A) eyes deeper inroads into the Northeast’s political landscape, its Arunachal unit is poised to play a key role in advancing social equity amid the state’s rapid developmental trajectory.
(Source: India Today NE)
