ACC&I takes charge of IMWA administration following court order | The Arunachal Times

Itanagar, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: ITANAGAR, 11 Jul: The Chamber of Commerce & Industries (ACC&I) has assumed the administration of the Itanagar Market Welfare Association (IMWA), following an order of the civil judge (junior division), Yupia, passed in Case No 27/26 under Title Suit No 15/26 on 25 June. This development marks a significant shift in the governance of the IMWA, which has faced internal disputes and legal challenges in recent months.

The IMWA has historically played a crucial role in representing the interests of traders and business owners in the Itanagar Capital Region. Founded to support and advocate for the local business community, the IMWA has been a vital platform for addressing the concerns of its members. However, the association has been embroiled in controversies regarding its leadership and operational efficacy. The recent court ruling has highlighted these issues and has now placed the ACC&I in a position of authority to manage the affairs of the IMWA until the resolution of the ongoing legal proceedings.

Addressing a press conference at the Press Club (APC) in Itanagar, ACC&I president Dr. Tarh Nachung elaborated on the implications of the court’s directive. He stated that the chamber has complied with the court’s order and is committed to restoring order and functionality within the IMWA. The ACC&I's involvement is seen as a necessary step to stabilize the association and ensure that it operates effectively for the benefit of its members. The transition of power is expected to help mitigate internal strife and realign the association’s focus on its core mission of supporting local businesses.

In accordance with the court’s ruling, Azad Bagang has been appointed as the president, and Biri Kame has been designated as the secretary-general of the IMWA. Their roles will be pivotal in overseeing the administration of the association during this transitional period. Dr. Nachung emphasized the importance of these appointments, stating that they are essential for the smooth functioning of the IMWA's operations until the title suit is resolved. The new leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and strategies to address the challenges facing the organization, including enhancing member engagement and improving service delivery.

Furthermore, Dr. Nachung urged the state government to take immediate action to repair and restore the non-functional CCTV cameras installed throughout Itanagar. The need for enhanced security measures is paramount, especially in light of recent events that have raised concerns about safety in the marketplace. The ACC&I's call for improved surveillance underscores the importance of creating a secure environment for business activities and the general public. A secure marketplace is not only essential for the safety of traders but also for attracting customers and fostering economic growth in the region.

In addition to security concerns, Dr. Nachung appealed to the newly appointed president and secretary-general to form a sub-executive committee. This committee would be tasked with facilitating the smooth administration of the IMWA and ensuring that all stakeholders are adequately represented. The formation of such a committee is expected to foster collaboration among different sectors of the business community within the region. By involving diverse perspectives, the IMWA can better address the needs and concerns of its members, ultimately leading to more effective governance.

Legal adviser Tarh Loma provided further insights into the court ruling, noting that the court has suspended the powers and functions of the current executive members of the IMWA. This suspension is based on the court’s determination that there exists a prima facie case indicating the illegality of the continued tenure of the previous office bearers. The court found that the former executive members had overstayed their term, having served four years, four months, and eight days, which exceeds the three-year limit set forth in the original bylaws of the IMWA. This ruling not only underscores the importance of adhering to organizational bylaws but also serves as a reminder of the need for accountability among elected officials.

The implications of this ruling are significant, as it not only affects the leadership structure of the IMWA but also raises questions about governance and accountability within the organization. The court’s decision reflects a growing concern regarding adherence to established bylaws and the need for proper oversight in the management of the association’s affairs. As the ACC&I takes charge, it will be essential to establish transparent processes and ensure that all actions taken by the new leadership are in alignment with the interests of the business community.

In conjunction with the assumption of administrative duties, the newly appointed executive committee has instituted a blanket ban on the collection of donations from the business community across the Itanagar Capital Region. This decision aims to prevent any unauthorized fundraising activities and ensure that all financial transactions are conducted transparently and with proper oversight. The new office bearers have mandated that any union or association seeking to collect donations or grants-in-aid from traders and business establishments must first obtain prior approval from the IMWA executive body. This measure is intended to protect the interests of the business community and to maintain the integrity of the IMWA as a representative body.

The ACC&I’s involvement in the administration of the IMWA represents a critical juncture for the association and its members. As the ACC&I takes charge, it faces the challenge of restoring credibility and trust among the business community while navigating the complexities of the ongoing legal proceedings. The actions taken by the ACC&I will be closely monitored by stakeholders, and their effectiveness will likely influence the future of the IMWA and its role in supporting the local economy. The chamber's ability to foster a collaborative environment among traders and address their concerns will be paramount in regaining the confidence of the business community.

Looking ahead, the outcome of the title suit will be pivotal in determining the long-term governance structure of the IMWA. The resolution of this case will not only impact the current leadership but also set precedents for how similar disputes are handled in the future. The business community in Itanagar is hopeful that the ACC&I's administration will lead to positive changes within the IMWA, ultimately fostering a more harmonious and productive environment for traders and business owners. The implications of this case extend beyond the IMWA, as they may influence the governance practices of other associations and organizations within the region.

In conclusion, the recent court ruling and the subsequent administrative changes within the IMWA represent a critical moment for the organization and its stakeholders. The ACC&I's leadership is expected to implement necessary reforms and restore order, ensuring that the IMWA can continue to serve its members effectively. As the situation unfolds, the business community will be watching closely to see how these changes impact the overall economic landscape of the Itanagar Capital Region.