Fresh video footage fuels custodial torture row over arrest of Arunachal activist Gumin Mize

Fresh video footage allegedly showing visible injuries on Arunachal Pradesh anti-drug activist Gumin Mize has intensified allegations of custodial torture against Assam Police, with several organisations now claiming the footage confirms physical assault during police custody.

 

The controversy deepened after student bodies and social organisations from Arunachal Pradesh, particularly the Adi Students’ Union (AdiSU), circulated a video clip purportedly showing bruises and injury marks on Mize while he was being taken to court following his arrest by Assam Police.

 

Originally from East Siang district, Mize has built a strong public image through his active involvement in identifying alleged drug peddlers, helping families affected by addiction, and assisting youths in rehabilitation efforts across districts including Itanagar, Siang, and Lower Subansiri.

 

The controversy erupted after Mize was arrested earlier this month by Bihpuria Police in Assam from Itanagar. Police reportedly booked him under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Arms Act following an incident in Bihpuria where gunshots were allegedly fired.

 

According to police sources, the case involves allegations of unlawful use of firearms. However, Mize’s legal counsel and supporters have strongly defended him, claiming that the firing involved legally licensed ammunition used purely in self-defense during an altercation.

 

Earlier, Lakhimpur Senior Superintendent of Police Gunendra Deka had denied allegations of custodial torture and reportedly claimed that photographs showing injuries on Mize circulating on social media were “AI-generated” and misleading.

 

However, the newly surfaced video footage has triggered fresh outrage, with organisations accusing Assam Police of attempting to cover up the alleged assault.

 

According to AdiSU leaders, the footage was secretly recorded by a member of the Anti-Drug Warriors group near the toilet area while Mize was being escorted during court proceedings.

 

Student organisations stated that the video clearly shows physical bruises and injury marks on Mize, directly contradicting the claims made by Lakhimpur Police.

 

“If the earlier images were called AI-generated, then this video footage should also be sent for forensic examination. The footage clearly confirms custodial torture. If police officers are found misleading the public, strict action must be taken against them,” AdiSU members said.

 

The arrest has triggered anger and emotional reactions among several sections of society in Arunachal Pradesh, with many alleging that the case may have been influenced by powerful drug syndicates threatened by Mize’s anti-drug activities.

 

Meanwhile, a delegation of the Takam Mising Porin Kebang (TMPK), led by External Affairs Secretary Reedeep Jack Doley, reportedly visited Bihpuria Police Station and interacted with investigating officers regarding the matter.

 

Several organisations have also appealed to Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung to intervene and ensure a transparent investigation into the allegations.

 

The controversy has further reignited concerns regarding the growing drug menace and alleged drug syndicates operating along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border areas, with activists demanding a high-level investigation under judicial supervision into narcotics networks active in the region.