Arunachal: Upper Siang MLA’s residence vandalised amid SUMP protests

Tensions surrounding the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) escalated in Arunachal Pradesh's Upper Siang district after a large group of protesters allegedly vandalised the residence of Geku-Mariyang MLA Oni Panyang.

According to reports, the residence of the People's Party of Arunachal legislator was targeted amid ongoing opposition to the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. Visuals emerging from the site showed extensive damage to the property, with furniture, household items and portions of the structure reportedly destroyed.

The footage revealed debris scattered across multiple rooms, including broken wooden furniture, overturned containers, shattered household items and damaged walls, indicating significant vandalism.

The incident comes against the backdrop of sustained protests by sections of local residents and organisations opposing the proposed multipurpose hydropower project on the Siang River. Protesters have raised concerns over the potential social, environmental and livelihood impacts of the project.

Authorities have not yet issued a detailed statement regarding the extent of the damage or any arrests in connection with the incident. Security personnel are understood to be monitoring the situation as tensions continue in the district.

Further details are awaited.