ITANAGAR: Tensions flared outside the DC Office in Arunachal Pradesh’s Longding district on Thursday as violence erupted following the rejection of a National People’s Party (NPP) candidate’s nomination.
Amidst the chaos, a senior police officer sustained injuries, and two police vehicles were damaged as supporters of the disqualified candidate vented their fury.
According to police reports, the unruly crowd, estimated to be around a hundred strong, resorted to pelting stones at the DC Office premises, prompting law enforcement to take action.
Superintendent of Police Dekio Gumja was struck by one of the stones, sustaining injuries to his face.
In response, police resorted to firing in the air to disperse the agitated crowd and restore order.
The incident unfolded around 3 pm following the rejection of Gangdiap Gansa, the NPP candidate from the Pongchau-Wakka Assembly constituency, during the scrutiny of nomination papers by the Returning Officer.
While SP Gumja’s condition is reported to be stable, he was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
Notably, the upcoming elections to the Arunachal Assembly are scheduled for April 19, with the nomination filing deadline having passed on March 27.
In a parallel development, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has extended the enforcement of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in three districts of Arunachal Pradesh, along with eight districts of Nagaland and other specified areas, for an additional six months.
This extension follows a thorough review of the prevailing law and order situation in these northeastern states, as confirmed by officials.
