The Siang dam project controversy has intensified in Arunachal Pradesh, with the state Congress demanding that the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) be scrapped and all protesters arrested during demonstrations released.
In a statement issued on Monday, November 2, the Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee said development projects should not come at the cost of indigenous communities' ancestral land, identity, culture and livelihoods. It also stressed that the consent of people likely to be affected must be obtained before proceeding with the project.
The party called on indigenous organisations, student unions, youth groups, civil society organisations and traditional institutions to unite against the proposed dam under the slogan: "Different groups but one voice; different organisations but one collective resolve — Stop SUMP, Save Siang."
Congress Demands Release of Arrested Protesters
The state Congress expressed concern over the arrest of people protesting against the project, the suspension of government employees and action against gaon buras, or village headmen, who opposed the proposal.
It demanded the immediate release of all detained protesters and withdrawal of cases registered under the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
The party also called for the revocation of suspension orders against government employees and withdrawal of cases against village headmen.
Other demands include the removal of additional security personnel from areas likely to be affected by the project, adequate compensation for those who suffered losses, and medical assistance and rehabilitation for injured protesters.
Indigenous Communities Raise Displacement Concerns
The proposed project has faced sustained opposition from sections of the indigenous Adi community, particularly residents of areas that could be affected by its construction.
Their concerns include the possible submergence of ancestral villages, displacement of families, loss of agricultural land and forests, and disruption of traditional livelihoods and cultural practices.
According to reports cited in the supplied information, 27 villages could be submerged, while several dozen others may face an impact from the project.
Siang Project Also Has Strategic Importance
The Centre considers the project strategically significant in the context of China's proposed large hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo river in Tibet. The river enters India as the Siang.
The Congress, however, has urged both the state and central governments to prioritise dialogue and confidence-building measures to restore peace in the region.
It appealed to residents and organisations to continue their movement through peaceful and democratic means, saying that protecting indigenous land and communities should remain central to the discussion.
Official website: Arunachal Pradesh Government
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