Arunachal CM Voices Concern Over Alleged Custodial Torture of Anti-Drug Activist

Concerns Raised Over Custodial Treatment

Itanagar, May 26: Pema Khandu, the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, has expressed serious concerns regarding the alleged custodial abuse of Gumin Mize, an anti-drug activist. This comes as public outrage grows in Arunachal and Assam following the emergence of images and videos that reportedly depict injuries sustained by Mize while in police custody.

The state administration has reached out to Assam regarding this issue, with Khandu stating that he took personal action after learning about the incident through social media platforms.

In a press briefing, Khandu emphasized that while Arunachal Pradesh cannot interfere in the judicial matters of another state, it has firmly communicated its apprehensions to the Assam authorities.

"Mize has been instrumental in combating drug-related issues in our region for several years, even aiding in the arrest of numerous drug traffickers," Khandu remarked.

Labeling the situation as unfortunate, Khandu has specifically urged the Assam government to ensure that Mize is not subjected to any form of torture or mistreatment during his detention.

He assured that the Arunachal government is vigilantly observing the developments.

Mize, who leads the Arunachal Anti-Drug Warriors (APADW), was apprehended by Assam Police on May 20 in connection with a case registered at Bihpuria Police Station in Assam's Lakhimpur district.

He faces charges under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Arms Act.

The FIR, filed by Popi Kakati, pertains to a violent incident that allegedly occurred on May 15 in Sessa Rajgarh, Assam, where a group of 12 to 15 unidentified individuals reportedly invaded a home, assaulted the residents, displayed firearms, and stole cash and mobile devices.

The complainant claimed that the assailants arrived in three vehicles searching for her husband, Rupam Kakati. When he attempted to escape, he was pursued, assaulted, handcuffed, and shot at. The FIR also states that the complainant was attacked while trying to intervene.

Authorities indicated that Mize's arrest was linked to allegations of gunfire during this confrontation.

However, Mize's supporters argue that he was in the area for anti-drug operations and had fired warning shots in self-defense when confronted by suspected drug dealers.

Following his arrest, images and videos allegedly showing Mize's bruises and injuries circulated widely on social media, sparking significant public outrage.

Numerous organizations and individuals have suggested that Mize's anti-drug efforts may have made him a target for those involved in narcotics operations in the area.

In light of the escalating controversy, a formal complaint has been submitted to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), alleging custodial torture of Mize at the Bihpuria Police Station in Assam's Lakhimpur district.

This complaint, lodged by Buteng Tayeng from Namsai, calls for an independent investigation by the NHRC and demands strict action against those found responsible.

Nonetheless, officials at Bihpuria Police Station have refuted the claims of custodial torture, asserting that the viral images and videos are AI-generated.