Indian Army faces criticism for silencing civilians amid frontier tensions
Mobile phone seized as part of communication blackout in Arunachal Pradesh
Itanagar: Residents of remote border villages in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Subansiri district have criticized Indian Army for forcibly taking away their mobile phones and restricting communication, amid growing tension with China along the Line of Actual Control.
According to Kashmir Media Service, residents of Taksing and Gelemo said that Army personnel confiscated mobile phones from civilians and warned them against discussing or sharing information about developments along the frontier. The restrictions have raised concerns over the suppression of local voices and the growing disconnect between border communities and authorities.
Residents said the measures have further weakened communication in already isolated frontier areas, where poor connectivity and inadequate infrastructure remain major challenges. They expressed concern that silencing civilians instead of addressing their security and development needs could deepen mistrust between local communities and the authorities.
The alleged communication restrictions have also triggered questions over India’s preparedness along the strategically sensitive frontier. Critics say reliance on military restrictions and intimidation cannot substitute for roads, telecommunications, public services and other infrastructure needed to secure the confidence of border populations.
The allegations come against the backdrop of longstanding concerns over China’s infrastructure development along the disputed frontier.
Reports have previously highlighted the construction of settlements and other infrastructure in areas claimed by India, raising questions over New Delhi’s border management and its ability to protect traditional grazing areas and strategic territory.
Border communities in Arunachal Pradesh have repeatedly faced isolation because of difficult terrain, inadequate roads and weak communication networks. Analysts have maintained that strengthening civilian infrastructure and integrating remote communities with the rest of the country are essential for both development and national security.
