|Maksam Tayeng|
PASIGHAT, May 24: Allegations of custodial torture against Arunachal Anti Drugs Warrior president Gumin Mize by Assam Police have triggered widespread outrage and concern across Arunachal Pradesh, with several organisations and individuals demanding immediate intervention and an impartial inquiry into the matter.
According to members of the organisation, Mize was detained following an incident near the Assam-Arunachal border and was allegedly subjected to severe physical assault while in custody in Assam’s Lakhimpur district. Supporters claimed that photographs showing visible injuries and bruises on his body have raised serious concerns over alleged custodial abuse.
The incident has sparked strong reactions from youth bodies, civil society organisations and anti-drug activists, many of whom have demanded an impartial investigation and judicial intervention to ensure accountability.
Supporters described Mize as a dedicated anti-drug campaigner who has actively worked against substance abuse and assisted youth in rehabilitation and awareness programmes in different parts of Arunachal Pradesh.
Human rights activists and community leaders have also appealed to state and national human rights bodies to closely monitor the case and ensure that due legal procedures are properly followed.
While no official statement has yet been issued regarding the torture allegations, the matter continues to attract significant public attention across the region. Several supporters have questioned the delay in intervention by the Arunachal Govt, particularly the Home Department, in addressing the issue.
Many have also appealed to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to personally intervene and take appropriate action if any wrongdoing by police personnel is established.
Members of the Anti Drugs Warriors further alleged that Mize was being treated “like a terrorist or drug mafia” despite his long-standing role in fighting drug trafficking and substance abuse in Arunachal Pradesh and adjoining Assam-Arunachal border areas.
The organisation also claimed that the complainant in the case is reportedly connected to a person earlier arrested by Arunachal Pradesh Police in connection with alleged drug peddling activities near the Banderdewa check gate.
Meanwhile, East Siang Zilla Parishad Chairperson Ruth Tabing Boko has written to State Home Minister Mama Natung seeking intervention in the matter while acknowledging Mize’s contribution towards the fight against drug abuse.
The issue has now evolved into a larger public debate concerning the treatment of anti-drug activists and the need for coordinated efforts between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in tackling drug-related crimes along the interstate border areas.
Several citizens and organisations have urged both state governments to handle the matter sensitively and ensure that justice, transparency and legal due process are upheld to avoid any adverse impact on inter-state relations and public trust.