Sikkimese rapper Ugen Namgyal Bhutia, known as UNB, and his manager Deep Dhar were attacked in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lower Dibang Valley on September 21 after performing at the Anini Winter Festival. The assault occurred while the group was traveling from Anini to Roing.
According to Dhar, two vehicles followed them for nearly an hour before stopping in a remote stretch with no mobile coverage. An Innova Crysta and a Bolero were involved. The Innova halted ahead of the group, and the Bolero approached from behind, blocking movement. A man from the Innova demanded the driver open the vehicle, threatening death if they did not comply. Once the attackers confirmed UNB was inside, a group of eight to ten men emerged and assaulted the rapper and his manager inside the car.
UNB sustained head and facial injuries, including swelling around one eye, while Dhar suffered a nose injury. The vehicle was damaged. The attackers fled after a truck arrived in the area, a fact noted by Dhar. The incident was reported to Roing Police Station around 7:50 p.m.
An FIR was filed under sections 126(2), 115(2) and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for wrongful restraint, voluntary causing hurt and criminal intimidation. Police acknowledged the remote location and lack of connectivity made the investigation difficult, but they are continuing to trace the attackers. Dhar said one suspect has been arrested and two others have surrendered, though their identities remain unknown.
Dhar declined to name the person he believes may be involved, stating the police should uncover the facts first. He also dismissed claims of a broader Sikkim–Arunachal conflict, attributing the attack to a personal feud between UNB and Arunachal rapper Don Kam, who is under investigation. The incident prompted a phone call between Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who assured that visiting artists would be treated with respect and that justice would be pursued. Dhar said the team will take greater safety measures for UNB’s future performances.
