Protests against the Siang mega dam continue amid calls for dialogue, release of detained activists and review of cases against demonstrators
Siang: A large anti-dam rally was underway in Yingkiong, headquarters of Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Siang district, on October 13, as opposition to the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) continued. Meanwhile, the Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has demanded the withdrawal of security forces from project-affected areas, warning that a coercive approach could escalate tensions.
Organised by the Siang Upper Multi-Purpose Project Affected Area Youth Association and the youth wing of the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum, the rally was permitted by the district administration subject to conditions, despite earlier restrictions on public gatherings.
Director General of Police S D Singh Jamwal said police would focus on maintaining law and order, adding that those involved in violence or other unlawful activities would face action.
Addressing a press conference on October 12, former APCC president Takam Sanjoy called for dialogue instead of confrontation. The party presented a 13-point charter demanding the withdrawal of police and paramilitary personnel, the release of four detained Adi activists and the withdrawal of cases against protesters wherever legally justified.
The Congress also sought a suspension of the Rs 350-crore development package until beneficiary lists and allocation criteria are made public, along with a temporary halt to field activities linked to the project’s Pre-Feasibility Report.
Tensions have persisted since violent protests during Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s visit to the region around two weeks ago. The government has repeatedly urged opponents to engage in dialogue.
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