News and stories from the eight states of Northeast India
An Arunachal Pradesh minister asserted that the nation remains fully capable of handling security challenges along the international frontier. He questioned recent statements attributed to the head of the border guarding force regarding ongoing standoffs on the frontier.
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Reports claim that China is resettling Tibetans near the Line of Actual Control to alter demographics, prompting a defense from Beijing. According to a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, troops conduct routine patrols and strictly adhere to existing bilateral agreements.
Itanagar, October 26: The Centre has deployed around 250 personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force’s Rapid Action Force (RAF) in Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, following violence during protests against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). The Ministry of Home Affairs directed the deployment of two RAF companies to strengthen security in the region. The violence erupted during a 12-hour bandh on October 23, with reports of vandalism, looting and damage to property in East Siang district. Protesters opposing the proposed hydropower project have raised concerns over land rights, displacement, environmental impact and the deployment of security forces for preliminary surveys. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pema Khandu held discussions with legislators, the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum and community organisations on October 25. He stressed the need for dialogue while addressing national security concerns, environmental protection and the rights of local communities.
Itanagar, October 26: Protests against two proposed mega hydropower projects have intensified in Arunachal Pradesh, with clashes, injuries and property damage reported in separate incidents. A 12-hour shutdown in Upper Subansiri district on Monday, called by student organisations opposing the proposed 1,605-MW Upper Subansiri Hydroelectric Project, disrupted normal life. Protesters reportedly damaged equipment at an NHPC-related office and vandalised a police vehicle. Earlier, at least four women were injured in clashes with police on October 23 during protests against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project in Siang district. Police fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators. Protesters have raised concerns over land, displacement and livelihoods, while additional security personnel have been deployed in the Siang region amid continuing tensions.
