Anti-Dam Protests Turn Violent In Arunachal Pradesh; Several Injured | Siang Dam Row

Protests against the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Arunachal Pradesh turned violent during a 12-hour bandh on October 23. Police fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators in Siang and East Siang districts. At least four women were injured near Geku, while clashes near Ranaghat Bridge in Mebo reportedly left several people injured and damaged multiple vehicles. Protesters demanded the release of arrested activists, reinstatement of suspended village headmen, withdrawal of pre-feasibility activities and removal of security forces. Chief Minister Pema Khandu urged residents to support the preparation of the project's Pre-Feasibility Report and seek information from the government. The proposed hydropower project has faced opposition over concerns about indigenous rights, land, livelihoods and environmental impact.