Arunachal CM Urges Dialogue After Mob Torches NHPC Office, Vandalises Leaders' Homes

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday appealed for peace and dialogue after protests against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) turned violent in Pasighat, leaving several police personnel injured and public and private property damaged.

A mob allegedly torched an NHPC office and a police station and vandalised the residences of three political leaders, including state BJP president Kaling Moyong, former MLA, and legislators Ninong Ering and Oni Panyang, in East Siang district on Friday night. Reports of looting and theft also emerged.

According to the Chief Minister's Office, a 12-hour bandh in Siang, Upper Siang and East Siang districts on Friday remained largely peaceful. However, violence erupted in Pasighat after the shutdown ended and continued until 3.30 am on Saturday.

Khandu said peaceful protest was an essential part of democracy but stressed that demonstrations must remain within the law. He urged organisations and community representatives to resolve differences through dialogue rather than actions that threaten public safety and disrupt law and order.

Reiterating the government's willingness to engage, Khandu invited stakeholders to discuss the project's potential benefits, possible adverse impacts and concerns raised by local communities. He offered to meet representatives in Itanagar, Pasighat or any location convenient to them, and said he was willing to visit a place proposed by the stakeholders.

Meanwhile, the East Siang administration imposed restrictions on public gatherings, processions and the carrying of weapons in Pasighat, Mebo and Ruksin, citing fears of further violence. The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, took effect at 5 pm on Saturday and will remain in force until withdrawn or modified.

It prohibits gatherings of more than five people, vandalism, intimidation and activities likely to disturb public peace. Carrying weapons, including firearms, daos, bows and arrows, knives and lathis, is also prohibited, except for authorised security personnel.

Processions, rallies, marches and meetings require prior written permission from the competent authority.