Centre rushes 2 RAF companies to violence-hit Arunachal Pradesh

New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs has dispatched two Rapid Action Force (RAF) companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to Arunachal Pradesh to assist in maintaining law and order following recent violent protests against a proposed 11,200-MW hydroelectric project.

The RAF personnel, comprising around 250 individuals, will be transported from Navi Mumbai aboard an Indian Air Force (IAF) transport aircraft and will arrive in Pasighat by Sunday, October 25, 2026. The CRPF, known for its anti-riot capabilities, has been deployed in the region as part of several existing security measures to prevent further escalation of tensions.

During a protest against the Upper Siang power project, four women sustained injuries when they clashed with police while demanding the release of 10 arrested activists and the withdrawal of paramilitary forces in the region. The incident occurred as protesters sought the reinstatement of suspended village headmen and the cessation of pre-feasibility activities related to the hydroelectric project.

The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, acknowledged the right to peaceful protest but emphasized that demonstrations should remain within the bounds of the law, refraining from causing property damage or disrupting public order. In a statement, Khandu condemned the violent outbreak in Pasighat following the end of the bandh and called for all segments of society to uphold peace.

Meanwhile, the NHPC office, a police station, and the residence of the state BJP chief were targeted by an aggressive mob that resulted in the arson of these establishments. The unrest began after the cessation of the bandh on Friday night and continued until early Saturday morning, October 24, according to Arunachal Pradesh Police officials.