Tensions Over Siang Upper Multipurpose Project Escalate, Four Detained Amid Violence Concerns

Amid continuing tensions surrounding the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), the Upper Siang district administration has ordered preventive detention of four persons under the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 2014, citing growing incidents of violence, arson and threats to public safety.
The development coincided with reports that five anti-dam activists were taken into police custody in Pasighat, with their associates alleging that their whereabouts remained unknown.
According to an official press release issued by Upper Siang Deputy Commissioner Ashok Tajo, the four persons against whom preventive detention orders have been issued are Adum Tayom of Kumku village, Omak Paron and Okut Paloh of Ramku village, and Oson Paron of Geku
In the press release, the Deputy Commissioner stated that the situation in certain areas of Upper Siang district has remained tense and volatile for the past four months in connection with Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) activities.
The administration stated that several incidents involving the destruction of houses and burning of government vehicles have created an atmosphere of fear among residents, adversely affecting peace, development and normal activities in the district.
Following a detailed assessment of the prevailing law-and-order situation, the District Magistrate issued preventive detention orders against these four individuals, the release stated.