GUWAHATI — Tensions have escalated along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh inter-state border in Dhemaji district after an economic blockade, launched by local Mising student and community groups, led to fresh clashes and police warning shots at the Likabali entry point.
The indefinite blockade was called by the Takam Mising Porin Kebang (TMPK)—alongside the Mising Mimag Kebang (MMK) and Takam Mising Mahila Kebang (TMMK)—in protest against a border confrontation on Monday in the Mingmang area, which left 11 indigenous people from Assam injured.
Key Developments
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Likabali Escalation: Stones were hurled at protesters at the Assam-Arunachal entry gate, triggering a clash between opposing groups. Arunachal Pradesh Police subsequently fired shots in the air to disperse the crowd and restore order.
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Economic Blockade: Protesting organizations blocked all commercial traffic heading into Arunachal Pradesh, allowing movement only for emergency services and school transport.
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Government Intervention: Assam Tribal Affairs Minister Ranoj Pegu and Border Protection Minister Atul Bora held high-level talks with Mising youth leaders to de-escalate the crisis and appealed for an immediate end to the blockade.
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Investigation & Medical Support: The Assam government announced it will cover full medical expenses for the injured and formally request Arunachal Pradesh authorities to hand over the alleged shooter, who operates from across the state border.
Official Statements
“The incident took place in Assam, while the person who allegedly opened fire is from Arunachal Pradesh. We will demand that the Arunachal government cooperate with Assam Police and hand over the accused.”
— Ranoj Pegu, Tribal Affairs Minister, Assam
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma urged restraint from both sides, emphasizing that boundary issues must be resolved through peaceful dialogue. He highlighted that out of 123 disputed border pockets between the two states, 71 have already been settled, with discussions ongoing for the remaining 52 locations.
