Guwahati: Protesters vandalized the residences of Arunachal Pradesh BJP president Kaling Moyong and Mariyang-Geku MLA Oni Panyang in Pasighat on Saturday, amid escalating tensions over the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).

The incidents followed violence during a 12-hour bandh on Friday, when demonstrators reportedly set fire to an NHPC office in Pasighat. The unrest erupted after security personnel used batons and tear gas to disperse protesters opposing the proposed dam.

The bandh began at 5 am across Siang, Upper Siang and East Siang districts. Protesters opposed the project and demanded the release of 10 arrested activists and the withdrawal of security forces deployed in the region.

Siang Superintendent of Police Kamdam Sikhom said around 150 to 200 protesters from Geku and Komkar in Upper Siang district gathered at Dite-Dime in Siang district around 7 am.

He alleged that they tried to damage police barricades, threw stones and violated prohibitory orders, prompting police to fire tear gas shells.

“Four women were injured in the clash and admitted to a hospital,” another police officer said.

Protesters alleged that security personnel used excessive force to disperse them, claiming several demonstrators were hit by tear gas shells and suffered breathing difficulties.

They called for an independent inquiry into the police action. Sikhom, however, said the bandh passed peacefully in other parts of Siang district.

Violence was also reported near Ranaghat Bridge in Mebo, East Siang district, where several people were injured and at least seven vehicles were damaged, officials said.

A cameraman with a local news channel was reportedly injured when a tear gas shell struck his leg, sources said. Two police vehicles were also reportedly set on fire.

East Siang Superintendent of Police Pankaj Lamba did not respond to repeated calls seeking comment, while Upper Siang Deputy Commissioner Ashok Tajo said the bandh was peaceful in his district.

The shutdown disrupted normal life across Siang and Upper Siang districts and parts of East Siang, with shops and other businesses closed and many residents staying indoors.