Editor,
As staunch supporters of the anti-drug cause, we write to you with profound distress and a deep sense of urgency to express our grave concern regarding the arrest and detention of Gumin Mize, chairman of the APADW.
Mize is a dedicated social activist of high repute throughout Arunachal Pradesh, widely recognised for his tireless efforts in spearheading grassroots anti-drug campaigns – a battle waged against the scourge of substance abuse which has inflicted devastating blows upon countless families and youths across the region.
Mize has selflessly worked to identify drug peddlers, support rehabilitation for addicts, raise awareness, and assist affected families in districts including East Siang, Itanagar, and Lower Subansiri. His efforts have earned him widespread respect and recognition as a committed warrior in the fight against narcotics. Many view his work as vital in protecting the future of our youths from this societal menace.
We are profoundly concerned about his recent arrest by the Assam Police from Itanagar in connection with a case registered at the Bihpuria police station in Lakhimpur district. While the legal process must be respected, credible reports of alleged custodial torture, visible injuries, and the circumstances surrounding the case have sparked widespread outrage and demands for transparency across Arunachal.
Given Mize’s prominent role in disrupting drug networks, there are serious and growing public apprehensions that this case may involve retaliation or influence from vested interests threatened by his anti-drug activities. The interstate nature of the matter, jurisdictional questions, and reports of his current condition further underscore the need for highest-level intervention to ensure justice, fairness, and his personal safety.
We earnestly appeal to release of Gumin Mize on bail or appropriate legal grounds, considering his contributions to society and the principle of natural justice.
We also seek conducting an impartial and time-bound judicial investigation into the allegations of mistreatment suffered during detention, as well as the full specific circumstances of the case.
Coordination should be facilitated between Arunachal and Assam governments to prevent this from escalating into an interstate issue while prioritising human rights and the broader fight against drugs.
Mize’s continued detention sends a discouraging signal to all social activists working for a drug-free society. His release would reaffirm the commitment of both states to genuine anti-narcotics efforts and public trust in law enforcement.
Anti-drug worker Saade Reckleben
