Arunachal Protests: Adi organisations held large-scale protests in Arunachal Pradesh, alleging that Centre has avoided the concerns of locals while considering the 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in the Siang region. In its statement, they alleged that the region has become a battleground in the contest between India and China, urging the authorities to rethink the decision.

Why Protests Are Being Held?

As per Adi Bane Kebang-United, one of the leading protesting organisations, the centre has avoided the concerns of locals, alleging that 80 per cent of the local residents have opposed the project. It further asserted that the authorities should not proceed with the proposed pre-feasibility study. The organisations have warned that the protests will intensify in the coming days if their demands were not addressed.

'Fear Among The Locals'

While questioning the step, spokesperson for the organization Datik Ratan alleged that the construction of a larger dam would not mitigate the potential impact of the reported Chinese dam on the other side. He further urged the authorities to not avoid the voices of the locals.

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"Constructing an 11,200 MW dam on the Indian side would not necessarily mitigate the potential impact of a reported 60,000 MW dam on the Chinese side of the border. In our own country, they should not have created a scene as if the British had invaded our areas in the 19th century," Ratan was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

"The govt is pushing ahead despite opposition from 80 per cent of families in the affected villages. This is an assault on tribal rights and an encroachment on our ancestral lands. The govt is responsible for creating disturbances," he added.

Where Is Dam Proposed?

As per the reports, the authorities might consider to drill along the Siang river to construct the dam. However, the project will affect locals in Siang, Upper Siang and East Siang districts. While many settlements have reportedly agreed to the proposal, a section is still protesting, demanding cancellation of the project.

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