From Navi Mumbai Airport To Arunachal: Centre ‘Urgently’ Airlifting RAF To Pasighat Amid Violence, More Forces Likely

News india From Navi Mumbai Airport To Arunachal: Centre ‘Urgently’ Airlifting RAF To Pasighat Amid Violence, More Forces Likely

Last Updated:October 25, 2026, 12:54 IST

The unrest stems from opposition to the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project on the Siang River, one of the largest proposed hydropower developments in the region

The Centre has initiated urgent arrangements to airlift around 250 personnel of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) from Navi Mumbai Airport in Maharashtra to Pasighat Airport in Arunachal Pradesh amid escalating violence linked to protests against the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), sources said.

According to sources, the Ministry of Defence has been requested to facilitate the airlift of two companies of the RAF by arranging suitable Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft on priority.

The proposed deployment is aimed at ensuring the timely movement of personnel to Arunachal Pradesh to undertake assigned operational duties in view of the prevailing security situation.

The request highlights the urgency of the deployment, with arrangements being sought at the earliest possible time. Further deployment of security personnel is also likely, depending on the evolving situation and operational requirements, sources indicated.

The move comes after violent incidents rocked Pasighat and adjoining areas of East Siang district following protests over the proposed hydropower project. Government and public properties were targeted during the unrest, prompting the administration to impose restrictions on public gatherings and step up security measures.

VIOLENCE FOLLOWS BANDH OVER SIANG PROJECT

The latest escalation followed a 12-hour bandh observed on October 23 across Siang, Upper Siang and East Siang districts against the proposed 11,200-megawatt Siang Upper Multipurpose Project.

Violence was reported in Pasighat on Friday night and continued into the early hours of Saturday. The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) office was reportedly set ablaze, while a police station, police vehicles and several other properties were attacked or damaged.

The residences of state BJP president Kaling Moyong and legislators Ninong Ering and Oni Panyang were also targeted. The office of the Adi Baane Kebang, a prominent organisation representing the Adi community, was vandalised during the unrest.

The incidents triggered heightened security concerns, with authorities moving to prevent further escalation and restore normalcy.

RESTRICTIONS IMPOSED IN AFFECTED AREAS

The East Siang district administration imposed prohibitory restrictions in Pasighat, Mebo and Ruksin following the violence. The measures prohibit gatherings of more than five people and restrict rallies, marches and public meetings without prior written permission.

The administration has also prohibited the carrying of weapons and objects that could be used as weapons, as part of efforts to contain the situation and prevent further incidents.

The proposed airlift of RAF personnel is expected to strengthen the security response as authorities assess the situation and prepare for possible further deployment of forces.

DISCONTENT OVER MEGA HYDROPOWER PROJECT

The unrest stems from opposition to the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project on the Siang River, one of the largest proposed hydropower developments in the region.

The project has generated apprehension among sections of the local population over the potential submergence of inhabited areas, displacement, environmental consequences and the impact on ancestral lands and indigenous communities.

Opposition groups have also raised concerns about preliminary survey activities associated with the project and have demanded the release of arrested activists and a review of the ongoing process.

The Siang River, which enters India from Tibet and flows through Arunachal Pradesh before joining the Brahmaputra system, holds considerable ecological, economic and cultural significance for communities in the region. Concerns over the river’s future have consequently become a major point of contention between project opponents and authorities seeking to advance the proposed development.

About the Author

Ankur SharmaAssociate Editor

With more than 17 years in journalism, Ankur Sharma is an Associate Editor specializing in internal security and strategic affairs. He covers the Ministry of Home Affairs, paramilitary forces, and cen...Read More

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