Itanagar : Allegations of custodial torture against prominent Arunachal Pradesh anti-drug activist Gumin Mize have triggered widespread outrage across the state, with several youth organisations, civil society groups and anti-drug bodies demanding an impartial investigation into the matter.

Mize, president of the Arunachal Anti Drugs Warrior, was reportedly detained following an incident near the Assam-Arunachal border. Members of the organisation alleged that he was physically tortured while in custody in Assam’s Lakhimpur district.

Supporters claimed photographs circulating after his detention showed visible bruises and injuries on his body, fuelling anger and concern among people across Arunachal Pradesh.

Several organisations and activists described Mize as a dedicated anti-drug campaigner who has worked extensively to combat substance abuse, identify alleged drug peddlers and support rehabilitation efforts in different parts of the state.

The incident has since become a major public issue in Arunachal Pradesh, with growing calls for judicial intervention and a transparent probe into the allegations of custodial abuse. Human rights activists and community leaders have also appealed to state and national human rights bodies to monitor the case closely and ensure due legal process is followed.

Members of the anti-drug organisation alleged that Assam Police treated Mize “like a terrorist and drug mafia” despite his longstanding work against narcotics networks operating in Arunachal Pradesh and adjoining Assam border areas.

Some supporters also questioned the response of the Arunachal Pradesh government and urged state authorities to intervene more actively in the matter. At the same time, several organisations and individuals appealed to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to personally intervene and ensure a fair inquiry into the allegations against the police personnel involved.

According to reports, the complaint linked to the case was allegedly lodged by Popi Kakoti, wife of Rupam Kakoti, a resident of Chessa under Bihpuria Police Station in Assam’s Lakhimpur district. Sources claimed that Rupam Kakoti had earlier been arrested by Arunachal Pradesh Police from the Banderdewa check gate in connection with alleged drug peddling activities.

Supporters of Mize argued that his campaign against drug abuse and alleged narcotics networks in the Assam-Arunachal border belt had earned him widespread public support and recognition across Arunachal Pradesh.

As of Sunday evening, Assam Police had not issued any official statement regarding the custodial torture allegations. The controversy, however, continues to intensify, with increasing demands for accountability from both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh authorities.

Observers have also cautioned that failure to address the issue transparently and sensitively could affect public sentiment and relations between communities living along the Assam-Arunachal border areas.