The Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border dispute has entered a tense phase after an economic blockade over the August 10 firing incident was followed by stone-pelting on the Silapathar-Likabali highway. Security forces have intensified monitoring as demands for arrests and action against alleged encroachment grow.
Quick Glance
- Border tension: Unrest continued along parts of the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary in the Northeast India on August 13.
- Trigger: The escalation followed a firing incident at Mingmang Basti on August 10.
- Injuries: At least 12 people were injured in the firing.
- Economic blockade: TMPK began an indefinite blockade from August 12.
- Key route affected: The Silapathar-Likabali highway has faced major disruption.
Agartala/Guwahati, August 13: Tensions remained elevated along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border on Thursday after an economic blockade linked to a recent firing incident escalated into stone-pelting. Police and CRPF personnel deployed in the area were caught up in clashes involving protesters from both states.
Tensions Rise After August 10 Firing
The situation remained tense in parts of Assam’s Dhemaji district and Arunachal Pradesh’s Lower Siang district. The unrest comes amid growing friction between members of the Mising and Galo communities following the August 10 firing.
The firing occurred at Mingmang Basti, located along the inter-state boundary under the Gogamukh revenue circle of Gerukamukh police station in Dhemaji district.
At least 12 people suffered injuries in the incident. The firing reportedly followed a dispute over allegations that people from Arunachal Pradesh had encroached upon land in Assam.
Economic Blockade Disrupts Inter-State Movement
In response, the Takam Mising Porin Kebang (TMPK) began an indefinite economic blockade on August 12. The agitation has disrupted transportation between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh at several locations.
The Silapathar-Likabali highway has emerged as one of the major affected routes. Tensions on the highway rose further on Thursday after protesters allegedly began pelting stones.
Police, CRPF Personnel Targeted
Security personnel deployed to control the situation also came under attack during the unrest. Police and CRPF teams were present in the affected areas to maintain law and order.
As part of the agitation, vehicles bearing Arunachal Pradesh registration numbers have reportedly been stopped at multiple entry points.
Mising Groups Demand Arrests
The TMPK, together with the Mising Mimag Kebang (MMK) and Takam Mising Mahila Kebang (TMMK), has demanded the immediate arrest of those allegedly responsible for the firing. The organisations have also called for the accused to be handed over to the Assam Police.
The groups have further urged both state governments to resolve the long-standing Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary dispute at the earliest. They have also demanded measures to address alleged encroachment on Assam territory.
Administration Appeals for Peace
The administration has urged local residents and protesters to remain calm. Authorities have also appealed against any action that could intensify the existing tensions.
Assam-Arunachal Border Dispute
Assam and Arunachal Pradesh share a boundary stretching 804.1 km. Several portions of the border remain contested between the two states.
Both governments have been working towards a negotiated resolution of the boundary issue. Their efforts include regional-level mechanisms and the framework outlined in the Namsai Declaration.
Security Forces Maintain Vigil
With tensions continuing in the affected areas, security forces and civil authorities have stepped up monitoring. Officials are maintaining a close watch to prevent further violence and contain any possible escalation.
