Watch| Arunachal minister Ojing Tasing flees amid anti-dam protest in Siang District

Arunachal Pradesh Minister Ojing Tasing, who holds the portfolios of Panchayat, Transport, and Rural Development, had a narrow escape today after being caught in the middle of a high-voltage protest against the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) – an ambitious proposed 11,000 MW hydropower initiative.

The incident occurred near the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Pangin, where Minister Tasing had arrived for a scheduled meeting with district officials and local community representatives. 

Eyewitnesses reported that a large group of agitated villagers, already incensed by the recent arrest of prominent anti-dam activist Ebo Mili, surrounded the premises and confronted the minister upon his arrival.

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The protest, which had been simmering for days, turned tense and chaotic, forcing security personnel to intervene. Minister Tasing was escorted out of the area under heavy security cover, narrowly avoiding a direct clash with the demonstrators.

Locals in the area have been voicing strong opposition to the SUMP project, citing environmental, cultural, and displacement concerns. The arrest of Ebo Mili has further intensified public anger, prompting wider mobilisations across the district.

While no injuries were reported, the incident has raised alarm over the volatile atmosphere surrounding major infrastructure projects in the region. Authorities are now reviewing security arrangements for public officials and considering steps to de-escalate the situation.