BOLENG/PARONG, Dec 15: Thousands of residents from Parong in Siang District staged a massive protest against the proposed 12,500 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) and the alleged deployment of paramilitary forces in affected villages. The rally saw participation from villagers across all age groups and various community-based organizations, unified in their opposition to the controversial project.
Earlier, the villagers had submitted a detailed representation to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Government of India, and the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh. The representation strongly opposed the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) survey for the project and condemned the deployment of armed forces in the region.
The protesters cited several reasons for their opposition:
- The Siang region’s geology, characterized by loose sedimentary rocks, lies in seismic zone V, making it unsuitable for large-scale dam construction.
- They accused the state government of ignoring a 2014 Gauhati High Court ruling, which mandated adherence to legal processes and prioritization of public safety in dam construction.
- Allegations were made against the district administration for misusing Gram Sabha signatures to fabricate consent, violating provisions of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers Act, 2006.
- The protesters rejected claims of majority support for the dam, demanding a referendum overseen by a neutral third party to gauge the genuine opinion of affected families.
The villagers also questioned the necessity of the project, arguing that existing dams in China along the Yarlung Tsangpo have not disrupted the Siang River’s flow into Arunachal Pradesh, thanks to natural replenishment by tributaries like the Yamne, Siyom, and Simang. They warned that the proposed dam would threaten the fragile ecosystem, disrupt livelihoods, and displace communities.
“We will not tolerate any coercive actions or accept projects that endanger our future,” the villagers declared during the protest. They called for the immediate withdrawal of paramilitary forces from the region, labeling their deployment unconstitutional and unjust.
The protest has intensified opposition to the project, drawing attention to the grievances of the local communities. The villagers urged the government to abandon the project and respect their rights, emphasizing the need for sustainable development that aligns with the interests of the people and the environment.
