Itanagar, May 26: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday voiced concern over the alleged custodial torture of anti-drug activist Gumin Mize, as outrage spread across the state and neighbouring Assam over photographs and videos purportedly showing injury marks on his body while in police custody. Khandu said he had personally intervened after learning of the incident on social media and conveyed his concerns directly to the Assam government.
“Mize has done excellent work here for the past several years against drugs. He has even facilitated the arrest of several individuals involved in drug peddling,” Khandu told reporters, describing the development as unfortunate. He added that while Arunachal Pradesh could not interfere in another state’s judicial process, he had requested Assam to ensure no mistreatment occurs while Mize remains in custody.
Mize, president of the Arunachal Anti-Drug Warriors (APADW), was arrested by Assam Police from Itanagar on May 20 in connection with a violent incident reported at Sessa Rajgarh in Lakhimpur district. The FIR alleged that a group of armed men stormed a residence, assaulted family members, and looted valuables. Police said Mize was arrested after allegations that gunshots were fired during the confrontation.
Supporters of the activist, however, claimed he was in the area for anti-drug operations and had fired warning shots in self-defence after being attacked by suspected traffickers. Soon after his arrest, images and videos showing bruises on his body circulated widely online, sparking public anger and demands for justice from student unions, civil society groups, and anti-drug activists across the Northeast.
A complaint has since been lodged with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), alleging custodial torture at Bihpuria Police Station and calling for an independent probe. The petition accused police personnel of physical assault, verbal abuse, and denial of medical examination. Authorities at Bihpuria police station have denied the allegations, claiming the viral visuals were AI-generated.
