Maksam Tayeng
PASIGHAT : Serious allegations of custodial torture against Arunachal Anti Drugs Warrior president Gumin Mize by Assam Police have sparked outrage across Arunachal Pradesh, with several youth organisations, civil society groups and anti-drug activists demanding an impartial investigation into the matter.
According to members of the organisation, Mize was detained following an incident near the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary and was allegedly subjected to physical torture while in custody in Assam’s Lakhimpur district. Supporters claimed that photographs showing visible bruises and injuries on his body emerged after the incident.
The allegations have triggered widespread concern across the state, prompting demands for judicial intervention and accountability from the authorities concerned. Human rights activists and community leaders have also appealed to state and national human rights bodies to monitor the case and ensure that due legal procedures are followed.
Supporters described Mize as a dedicated anti-drug campaigner who has actively worked to raise awareness against substance abuse and assist youths undergoing rehabilitation in different parts of Arunachal Pradesh.
Members of the Anti Drugs Warrior organisation further alleged that Assam Police treated Mize “like a terrorist and drug mafia” despite his anti-drug activities along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary areas. They also alleged possible nexus between certain drug networks and those targeting Mize, though no official confirmation regarding the claims has emerged so far.
The controversy intensified after supporters pointed out that the complainant in the case was Popi Kakoti, wife of Rupam Kakoti, a resident of Chessa under Bihpuria Police Station in Assam’s Lakhimpur district, who was reportedly arrested earlier by Arunachal Pradesh Police from Banderdewa check gate in connection with alleged drug peddling.
Meanwhile, East Siang Zila Parishad Chairperson Ruth Tabing Boko has written to Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung seeking his intervention in the matter while acknowledging Mize’s contribution towards the fight against drug abuse.
Several supporters and well-wishers have also appealed to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to intervene and ensure a fair inquiry into the allegations against the police personnel involved.
No official statement has yet been issued by Assam Police regarding the custodial torture allegations. However, the incident continues to draw significant public attention and debate across the region.
