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Politics
Villagers seize Upper Siang, stalling CM Pema Khandu’s tour over SUMP PFR
✍️ The Arunachal Times
🗓 01 Oct 2026, 01:17 PM
👁 9
A protest by Upper Siang villagers against the SUMP PFR project halted Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s district tour.
Villagers in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Siang district occupied key points of the area, effectively taking control of the region as part of a protest against the SUMP PFR project. The occupation blocked access routes and created a visible presence of local residents demanding a halt to the scheme.
The demonstration disrupted Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s scheduled tour of the district. The CM’s entourage was forced to pause the itinerary and engage with local leaders to assess the situation, marking a setback for the administration’s outreach plans.
Residents have voiced concerns that the SUMP PFR project could affect their livelihoods and the ecological balance of the district. While officials have not detailed specific grievances, the protest reflects broader apprehensions about large‑scale development initiatives in remote hill areas.
Security forces were deployed to maintain order, but no reports of violence emerged. Authorities indicated that dialogue with the villagers would continue to resolve the impasse.
The demonstration disrupted Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s scheduled tour of the district. The CM’s entourage was forced to pause the itinerary and engage with local leaders to assess the situation, marking a setback for the administration’s outreach plans.
Residents have voiced concerns that the SUMP PFR project could affect their livelihoods and the ecological balance of the district. While officials have not detailed specific grievances, the protest reflects broader apprehensions about large‑scale development initiatives in remote hill areas.
Security forces were deployed to maintain order, but no reports of violence emerged. Authorities indicated that dialogue with the villagers would continue to resolve the impasse.