Itanagar, May 26, 2026 — Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday expressed serious concern over alleged custodial torture of anti‑drug activist Gumin Mize after photographs and videos purportedly showing injury marks on his body circulated on social media. The state government has taken up the matter with Assam, and Khandu said he personally intervened after seeing the posts, urging Assam authorities to ensure Mize is not mistreated while in custody.
Khandu praised Mize’s anti‑narcotics work, saying, “Mize has done excellent work here for the past several years against drugs. He has even facilitated the arrest of several individuals involved in drug peddling.” He also stressed that Arunachal Pradesh cannot interfere in another state’s judicial process but has formally conveyed its concerns and is closely monitoring the situation.
Mize, president of the Arunachal Anti‑Drug Warriors (APADW), was arrested by Assam Police in Itanagar on May 20 in connection with a case registered at Bihpuria Police Station in Lakhimpur district. He was booked under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and provisions of the Arms Act.
According to the FIR lodged by Popi Kakati, the case stems from an alleged violent incident on May 15 at Sessa Rajgarh in Assam, when a group of 12–15 unidentified persons reportedly stormed a residence, assaulted family members, brandished firearms and looted cash and mobile phones. The complainant alleged the attackers arrived in three vehicles looking for her husband, Rupam Kakati, who, she says, was chased, beaten, handcuffed and fired upon while trying to flee.
Police said Mize was arrested after allegations that gunshots were fired during the confrontation. Supporters of the activist, however, contend he had gone to the area in connection with anti‑drug operations and fired warning shots in self‑defence after being attacked by suspected drug peddlers.
The circulation of images and clips allegedly showing bruises on Mize’s body has triggered widespread anger across Arunachal Pradesh and neighbouring Assam, with several organisations and citizens suggesting his anti‑drug activism may have made him a target of vested narcotics interests. In response to the controversy, Namsai resident Buteng Tayeng has filed a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) seeking an independent probe and strict action against those responsible.
Authorities at Bihpuria police station have denied the custodial torture allegations and claimed the viral photographs and videos were AI‑generated. The Arunachal government has asked Assam to investigate the matter and ensure the activist’s safety while legal proceedings continue.
PTI
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/north-east/arunachal-cm-engages-assam-govt-over-anti-drug-activist-torture-allegations-1612072
Category: Assam,North East,Featured
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Publish Date: 2026-05-26 18:19:00
