PASIGHAT, Nov 10: The Jawaharlal Nehru College Students’ Union (JNCSU) sought the early release of 18 students arrested for their alleged involvement in violence during protests against the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Arunachal Pradesh.
In a representation to East Siang superintendent of police Pankaj Lamba, the union said the students’ continued detention could affect their studies and preparation for semester examinations scheduled in December. It urged the police to consider their release under the applicable legal procedure.
The union said it would advise the students to maintain discipline and uphold peace and harmony in the college and society if they were released.
Protests against the proposed 11,200 MW hydropower project in Pasighat turned violent on October 23. Local organisations and residents had demanded that preliminary survey work be stopped, citing concerns over the project’s possible impact.
Stone-pelting, arson and vandalism were reported during the protest. NHPC offices and police establishments were allegedly targeted, while several police vehicles and the residences of political leaders, including a local MLA and the state BJP president, were damaged. Several police personnel were injured in the clashes.
Police registered several cases and began an investigation. Lamba said at least 18 Jawaharlal Nehru College students were arrested for their alleged involvement in the incident. Of them, 10 were in judicial custody and eight had secured bail.
The students’ union reiterated that the matter of their release should be resolved promptly within the legal framework, keeping their academic future in view.
