NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW,” CM PEMA KHANDU ON SUMP-RELATED PROTESTER DETENTIONS.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu has defended the police detentions linked to protests over the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), asserting that the law applies equally to everyone, regardless of position or status. Addressing the issue at a press conference, Khandu said those involved in violations of law and order had been detained by the police. He maintained that the project is currently at the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) stage, describing it as a survey process for which MoUs were not required at this stage. Chief Minister stated that MoUs would follow after the PFR stage, in accordance with applicable rules. He also said the government remains open to dialogue with the Adi Bane Kebang (ABK), All Siang Students’ Union (ASU) and other forums to address public grievances and concerns. While emphasising the importance of democratic dialogue, Khandu asserted that violence would not be tolerated under the name of protest and that violations would be dealt with according to law. “Whether it is the Chief Minister, a VIP or anyone else, the law is equal for all,” Khandu asserted, urging all stakeholders to sit together, engage in dialogue and work towards a mutual understanding on the SUMP-related PFR process.