CM KHANDU CONDEMNS VANDALISM IN PASIGHAT, INVITES SUMP STAKEHOLDERS FOR DIALOGUE

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Itanagar, October 24 : Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed concern over incidents of vandalism, looting and damage to property in Pasighat following the 12-hour bandh called on October 23 in Siang, Upper Siang and East Siang districts by organisations opposing the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).

Addressing the media on Friday, Khandu said the bandh remained largely peaceful in Siang and Upper Siang districts and in Pasighat during the day. However, incidents of vandalism and looting were reported in Pasighat after the bandh ended, continuing until around 3.30 am on October 24.

According to the Chief Minister, the properties affected included a police station, the Adi Baane Kebang (ABK) complex and the NHPC office. The residences of local MLA Oni Panyang, senior MLA Ninong Ering and State BJP president Kaling Moyong were also vandalised, with reports of looting and theft.

Khandu said peaceful protest was an essential democratic right, but stressed that demonstrations must remain within the bounds of the law and should not lead to damage to public or private property or disturb public order.

Describing the incidents as regrettable, he appealed to all sections of society to maintain peace and ensure that such incidents were not repeated.

On the concerns surrounding the SUMP, the Chief Minister reiterated that the State government remained open to discussions with organisations, associations and other stakeholders to address their concerns and apprehensions regarding the proposed project.

He said the government was willing to facilitate detailed discussions on the project’s potential benefits, possible adverse impacts and other issues raised by local communities.

“The government’s doors are always open. Any organisation or association that wants to discuss the SUMP project is welcome. People should question the government, discuss the possible benefits and negative aspects of the project, and seek clarification on their concerns,” Khandu said.

The Chief Minister stated that the government had undertaken outreach efforts and invited stakeholders to participate in meetings. He urged organisations to make use of these opportunities to present their views and seek clarification through direct engagement.

Offering to meet representatives of organisations from the Siang region, Khandu said discussions could be held in Itanagar, Pasighat or any other location convenient to the stakeholders. He also expressed his willingness to visit a place proposed by them, accompanied by officials from the concerned government departments.

Reiterating the government’s position on the SUMP, Khandu said public consensus would remain central to the process of taking the project forward.

He encouraged organisations and community representatives to participate in round-table discussions to address concerns, clear doubts and develop a better understanding of the project.

The Chief Minister emphasised that differences of opinion should be resolved through dialogue and democratic processes rather than actions that could threaten public safety and disrupt law and order.

Khandu appealed to all stakeholders to maintain peace and engage constructively with the government on the SUMP, stating that dialogue remained the way forward in addressing the concerns of the people.