Guwahati, Oct. 23 -- An angry backlash against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh erupted into violence on Friday, with protesters reportedly setting fire to an NHPC office in Pasighat after security forces unleashed a lathicharge and fired tear gas shells to disperse demonstrators during a 12-hour bandh.

Two police vehicles were also reportedly set ablaze as tensions escalated, with several protesters, including women and students, sustaining injuries in the police action.

The violence has raised serious questions about the Arunachal Pradesh government's handling of opposition to the controversial mega dam project and the use of force against communities demanding that their concerns and rights...