The Apatani Students’ Union (ASU) has officially called off its previously announced total bandh in the Lower Subansiri District, which was scheduled to take place from 5:00 AM on September 25 to 5:00 PM on September 28, 2025.
The bandh was initially declared in response to the Ziro Festival of Music (ZFM) organizers’ continued failure to uphold their commitment to adopt “Zero Drugs Ziro” as the central theme of the festival — a non-negotiable initiative aimed at protecting the youth and community from drug abuse.
ASU had issued strict bandh guidelines, mandating closure of all shops and business establishments, halting of all private and commercial vehicles, and allowing exemptions only for police, medical services, pharmacies, and the media.
However, following renewed discussions, the ZFM organizers have now agreed to fully cooperate with ASU and support the “Zero Drugs Ziro” campaign, acknowledging it as a collective social responsibility.
In light of this development, ASU has decided to withdraw the bandh call in the greater interest of public convenience and unity, while continuing to uphold its commitment to a drug-free Ziro Valley.
