ACC&I takes over IMWA charge following court order

Itanagar, India Jul 11, 2026 ALN: The Chamber of Commerce & Industries (ACC&I) has officially taken over the administration of the Itanagar Market Welfare Association (IMWA) following a directive from the Yupia Civil Judge (Junior Division) in case No. 27/26 (title suit No. 15/26) on June 25. This development marks a significant shift in the governance of IMWA, which has faced scrutiny regarding its leadership and operational practices.

The IMWA has been a pivotal organization in the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR), representing the interests of local traders and business owners. Established with the objective of promoting trade and welfare among its members, the association has historically played an essential role in addressing the concerns of the business community. However, the recent court ruling indicates that internal governance issues had prompted legal intervention, suggesting a deeper malaise within the organization.

During a press conference held at the Press Club (APC) on Friday, ACC&I President Dr. Tarh Nachung confirmed that the chamber has complied with the court's order and assumed control over IMWA's operations. Dr. Nachung's leadership in this transitional phase is critical, as he aims to restore confidence among stakeholders while navigating the complexities of the current situation.

As part of the transition, Azad Bagang has been appointed as the new president and Biri Kame as the secretary general of IMWA. This leadership change is effective immediately and will remain in place until the resolution of the aforementioned case. The appointments of Bagang and Kame reflect a strategic effort to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to the association, which has been mired in controversy.

Dr. Nachung emphasized the need for improved security measures in Itanagar, urging the Government of (GoAP) to repair the non-functional CCTV cameras installed throughout the city. The call for enhanced security is particularly relevant in the context of rising concerns about safety in urban areas, where the presence of functional surveillance systems can deter crime and improve public safety. By highlighting this issue, Dr. Nachung is not only addressing immediate safety concerns but also advocating for infrastructure improvements that can benefit the entire community.

Legal advisor Adv. Tarh Loma stated, "The court has suspended the powers and functions of the current executive members of IMWA." He explained that the title suit was initiated by Lindum Tarium and was presented by counsel P. Talik on June 25. This legal action underscores the importance of adherence to established bylaws and governance standards within organizations, particularly those that have a direct impact on the livelihoods of local business owners.

The court's order highlighted a prima facie case of apparent illegality regarding the continuation of office for certain executive members, indicating an infringement of the civil rights of the claimant. The previous executive members had exceeded their tenure, having served four years and four months, which surpasses the three-year limit established by the original bylaws. This breach of governance standards raises critical questions about accountability and the mechanisms in place to ensure that elected officials adhere to the rules set forth by the organization.

Following their appointment, Bagang and Kame announced a blanket ban on the collection of donations from the business community across the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR). Any union or association wishing to solicit grants or donations from traders must now obtain prior permission from IMWA. This policy change aims to eliminate any potential misuse of funds and ensure that all financial activities are conducted transparently and with the consent of the broader business community.

This significant change in leadership and policy aims to restore order and transparency within the IMWA, ensuring that the rights of all stakeholders are respected and upheld. The new administration's commitment to transparency is crucial in rebuilding trust among members who may have felt disenfranchised by previous leadership practices.

The implications of this takeover extend beyond the immediate governance of IMWA. It reflects broader issues within organizational management in the region, particularly regarding adherence to bylaws and the importance of maintaining democratic processes within associations. The legal ruling serves as a reminder of the necessity for organizations to operate within their established frameworks and for stakeholders to hold their leaders accountable.

Moreover, the situation highlights the critical role that the judiciary plays in upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of individuals within civil society. The court's intervention in this case demonstrates its willingness to address grievances and enforce compliance with organizational regulations, thereby reinforcing the principle that no entity is above the law.

As the new leadership of IMWA embarks on its mandate, the focus will likely be on implementing reforms that not only address the immediate concerns raised in the court ruling but also foster a culture of inclusivity and collaboration among all members. The effectiveness of Bagang and Kame's leadership will ultimately depend on their ability to engage with the business community, address their concerns, and work towards common goals that benefit the region's economic landscape.

In conclusion, the takeover of IMWA by ACC&I following the court's directive marks a pivotal moment in the governance of the association. It underscores the importance of legal compliance, transparency, and accountability in organizational management. As the new administration takes charge, the focus will be on restoring trust, enhancing security measures, and ensuring that the rights of all stakeholders are respected. The developments in this case will be closely monitored by the business community and may serve as a precedent for similar organizations facing governance challenges in the future.