The District Administration, Siang on Monday issued a rejoinder to reports alleging that 65-year-old Yalek Tair was severely assaulted in police custody after the protest at Ugeng on 4th October in connection with the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).
In its clarification, the administration said it shares concern for Tair, who is undergoing treatment at Asha Lab Private Hospital, Pasighat, and all necessary care is being ensured.
The administration said the report’s headline and opening had alleged that her rib fractures and lung injury were caused by custodial assault.
It stated that by order dated 5th October 2026 in GR Case No. 45/2026, the Judicial Magistrate First Class, Pangin, recorded her complaint, observed that “the matter requires appropriate verification” and ordered an inquiry by an officer not connected with the alleged incident. The inquiry is being conducted by DySP HQ Boleng and the report is due on 19th October.
Citing the police account, the administration said Tair and others were part of a mob that allegedly torched two dwelling houses and severely injured an Assistant Commandant of 174th Battalion, CRPF on 4th October, and were apprehended at the spot around 2:30 pm under Section 170 of BNSS.
After apprehension, they were taken for medical examination to District Hospital, Boleng at 10 pm on 4th October before being brought to the police station. Injuries were recorded by the medical officer at that time and the reports were placed before the Magistrate without withholding findings, it said.
Police have denied the allegation of assault in custody and claimed injuries documented during initial examination were already present before custody. The chronology and denial will be examined in the court-directed inquiry, the administration said.
On allegation of delay in treatment, it said the forwarding report itself contained the medical officer’s advice for referral to a higher facility, which was placed before the court the next day, and Tair was taken to Pasighat on 5th October for further treatment. Any allegation of delay in subsequent treatment will be examined in the inquiry.
The administration said it remains accountable for conduct of officials and any misconduct established must be dealt with as per law.
It has requested publication of the rejoinder with due prominence under the right of reply as per Press Council of India norms, and revision of headline to reflect that custodial assault is an allegation under court-directed inquiry along with police denial.
The administration said it respects citizens’ right to peaceful protest and media’s role in scrutinizing official conduct, but urged accurate and responsible reporting, noting that presenting unresolved allegations as facts in a tense situation can deepen mistrust and endanger both residents and security personnel.
It appealed to the public to maintain peace and allow the inquiry to establish facts.