The district magistrate of Namsai in Arunachal Pradesh, India, imposed prohibitory orders on Sunday restricting public gatherings in response to a violent clash between All Tai Khamti Singpho youth and Adivasi youth, which caused a “serious law and order” issue.

The dispute originated as a personal altercation transformed into a communal skirmish at Namsai market on the night of January 14. According to local news sources, over 15 individuals sustained serious injuries from gunshots and machete assaults, with eight requiring hospitalization. The incident also caused damage to public property.

As a precautionary measure, an order was issued under section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). The order restricts the gathering of more than four individuals at a particular place and prohibits the carrying of legal weapons. Additionally, the order directed the police superintendent to enforce the order “with immediate effect strictly.” The order is still in effect.

The Adivasi community in the locality allegedly staged a blockade at the National Highway 15 since morning to demand immediate arrest of the culprits, along with an apology letter. Further, they demanded medical compensation from the Arunachal Pradesh government for the injured.

Moreover, pilgrims found themselves stranded, prompting the district administration of the neighboring Tinsukia district in Assam to redirect the route for those journeying to Parshuram Kund, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site in Arunachal Pradesh to avoid any additional inconveniences. Two alternative routes were recommended, and pilgrims were advised to steer clear of the Kakopathar-Dirak Gate route passing through Namsai “until further notice.”

Tensions arose between the two communities following the Namsai arson incidents in October 2019, which stemmed from the illegal encroachment of public land. This escalation led to a sequence of undesirable events, including exchanging hate speeches and filing numerous FIRs, which refers to preliminary reports from both sides. The two communities engaged in dialogue to restore peace and eventually signed a joint peace declaration known as the “Namsai Declaration.” Through this agreement, they committed to seeking a resolution, fostering communal harmony and collectively moving beyond the violent events of October 2019.