Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu condemned vandalism and looting in Pasighat on October 24. The incidents followed a 12-hour bandh against the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). Organisations observed the bandh across Siang, Upper Siang and East Siang districts on October 23. The shutdown remained largely peaceful during the day, but violence erupted in Pasighat after it ended. Vandals reportedly targeted public buildings and the homes of political leaders. Khandu urged residents to maintain peace and resolve their concerns through democratic dialogue.
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Key Facts About the Pasighat Incident
- Location: Pasighat, East Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh
- Incident date: October 23–24, 2026
- Bandh duration: 12 hours
- Main issue: Opposition to the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project
- Chief Minister: Pema Khandu
- Reported targets: Police station, ABK complex, NHPC office and political leaders’ residences
- Government response: Condemnation of violence and an invitation for dialogue
- Next step: Discussions with stakeholders about the proposed project
Vandalism Reported After the Bandh
Organisations opposing the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project called the 12-hour bandh on October 23. The shutdown affected Siang, Upper Siang and East Siang districts.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu said the bandh remained largely peaceful in Siang and Upper Siang districts. Pasighat also witnessed a largely peaceful shutdown during the day.
However, trouble began after the bandh ended. Reports of vandalism, looting and property damage continued until around 3:30 am on October 24.
Vandals reportedly targeted a police station, the Adi Baane Kebang (ABK) complex and the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) office. Reports also said vandals damaged the homes of local MLA Oni Panyang, senior MLA Ninong Ering and state BJP president Kaling Moyong. The incidents also involved alleged looting and theft.
Pema Khandu Appeals for Peace
Khandu strongly condemned the incidents and called for calm across the state. He said peaceful protests form an essential part of democracy. However, he stressed that demonstrators must follow the law and respect public order.
The Chief Minister urged all sections of society to prevent further violence. He also called on organisations to express their concerns without damaging property or threatening public safety.
His appeal comes amid continuing opposition to the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. The government has offered to discuss the project with concerned organisations and community representatives.
Government Invites Talks on the SUMP Project
Khandu reiterated that the Arunachal Pradesh government remains open to discussions about SUMP. He invited organisations, associations and other stakeholders to raise questions and seek clarification.
The Chief Minister encouraged people to examine the project’s potential benefits and possible negative impacts. He also urged organisations to use government meetings to present their concerns directly.
Khandu offered to meet representatives from the Siang region in Itanagar, Pasighat or any other location they prefer. He said he would also visit a place chosen by the stakeholders.
Officials from the relevant government departments would accompany him during these discussions. The meetings would give local representatives an opportunity to share their views and seek answers from the administration.
Public Consensus Remains Important
Khandu said public consensus would play a central role in decisions concerning the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. He encouraged community representatives and organisations to join round-table discussions.
These meetings could help address public concerns and improve understanding of the proposed project. The Chief Minister stressed that people should resolve disagreements through dialogue and democratic processes.
He also appealed to all stakeholders to maintain peace while discussing the project’s future. The government, he said, remains ready to listen to different viewpoints and clarify concerns.
Importance of the Siang Region
The Siang region holds significant importance for Arunachal Pradesh and its local communities. Major infrastructure proposals can raise questions about development, environmental impacts and community interests.
The opposition to SUMP highlights the need for transparent communication and meaningful public consultation. The latest incidents in Pasighat have also renewed concerns about maintaining law and order during protests.
The state government has invited stakeholders to discuss the project directly with officials. However, the outcome will depend on further consultations and the issues raised by local organisations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why did organisations call a bandh in Arunachal Pradesh?
Organisations called a 12-hour bandh on October 23 to oppose the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project.
2. What happened in Pasighat after the bandh?
Reports of vandalism, looting and property damage emerged after the bandh ended. The incidents continued until around 3:30 am on October 24.
3. Which properties did vandals reportedly target?
The reported targets included a police station, the ABK complex, the NHPC office and the homes of three political leaders.
4. What did Pema Khandu say about the violence?
Khandu condemned the incidents and urged people to maintain peace. He also called for lawful protests and constructive dialogue.
5. Is the Arunachal Pradesh government ready to discuss SUMP?
Yes. Khandu invited organisations and community representatives to meet him and relevant officials at a location convenient to them.
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