Sikkim rapper UNB has received support from Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu after an alleged assault in Lower Dibang Valley. Khandu assured Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang that he would intervene and ensure necessary action.
The incident has raised concerns among artists and performers across the Northeast. Meanwhile, Arunachal Pradesh Police have arrested one person and identified 12 others in connection with the alleged attack.
Rapper UNB attacked after festival performance
Ugen Namgyal Bhutia, popularly known as UNB, was allegedly attacked near Tiwari Gaon while returning to Roing after performing at the Anini Winter Festival 5.0. The incident occurred on September 21, according to police and his manager.
Police said two vehicles allegedly followed the rapper’s car for nearly an hour before intercepting it on an isolated road. A group of eight to 10 men allegedly damaged the vehicle with rods and attacked UNB and his manager, Deep Dhar.
UNB suffered injuries to his head and face, including swelling around one eye. He underwent a medical examination and remained stable, according to reports. The attackers allegedly fled after a truck approached the area.
Pema Khandu promises action
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang spoke to Pema Khandu on September 22 and requested his personal intervention. Tamang expressed concern about UNB’s safety and well-being.
Khandu assured him of prompt intervention and necessary action. The Sikkim chief minister later thanked his Arunachal counterpart for responding to the matter.
In a statement reported by Sikkim media, Khandu also emphasised that artists are guests of Arunachal Pradesh. The assurance came as the alleged assault prompted calls for justice from musicians and cultural groups.
Police investigation moves forward
Arunachal Pradesh Police registered a case at Roing Police Station under Sections 126(2), 115(2) and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. These provisions relate to wrongful restraint, voluntarily causing hurt and criminal intimidation.
Police initially faced challenges because the reported assault took place in a remote area with poor mobile connectivity. Officers visited the location with the victims and began gathering evidence.
However, the investigation has since produced a significant development. Lower Dibang Valley Superintendent of Police Ringu Ngupok said police arrested 22-year-old Nabam Tapang at Doimukh on Wednesday night. Officers also identified the remaining 12 accused in the case.
Police examine possible motive
Investigators are examining the circumstances behind the alleged attack. They are also looking into reports of a professional rivalry between UNB and Arunachal Pradesh-based rapper Don Kam.
Police have acknowledged the rivalry and related social media comments as part of their inquiry. However, authorities have not established a motive or confirmed the involvement of any particular individual beyond the arrest announced by police.
Therefore, the allegations remain subject to investigation and due legal process.
Artists demand safety and justice
The alleged attack has drawn condemnation from Sikkim’s music community. Artists and music producers have urged Arunachal Pradesh authorities to take swift and lawful action.
They said performers should be able to travel across the region without fear. They also called for a thorough investigation and better protection for artists who visit Arunachal Pradesh for cultural events.
The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha Culture Wing separately condemned the reported assault. It appealed to authorities to ensure a fair investigation and justice for UNB.
The North East India Tourism Confederation also urged Arunachal Pradesh’s Home Minister Mama Natung to ensure a fair and time-bound probe. The organisation said artists, tourists and visitors should be able to travel and participate in cultural events in a safe environment.
Regional trust depends on justice
The alleged attack on Sikkim rapper UNB has brought attention to the safety of artists travelling between Northeast states. The incident has also prompted renewed calls for cooperation between state governments and law enforcement agencies.
As the investigation continues, authorities face the task of establishing the facts and determining responsibility. Meanwhile, the arrest and identification of suspects have marked progress in the case.
The response from Pema Khandu and Prem Singh Tamang has highlighted the importance of maintaining trust between Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. For artists, the outcome of the investigation will remain closely watched as they seek safety, dignity and the freedom to perform across the region.
