BOLENG, May 22: Tensions are rising in the Siang region of Arunachal Pradesh as the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to assist National Hydro Electric Power Corporation (NHPC) officials in conducting a Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) for the proposed 11,500 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) has triggered strong opposition from local communities.
CAPF personnel have reportedly been stationed in Beging, Geku, Jengging, and the district headquarters of Pasighat (East Siang), Boleng (Siang), and Yingkiong (Upper Siang). Sources allege that drilling machinery has already been installed at the Beging survey point to facilitate the survey operations.
The Project Affected Families (PAFs), under the banner of the Siang Indigenous Farmer’s Forum (SIFF), have condemned the move, citing that no consent was given for the PFR or any survey-related activities. The SIFF claims this action is a “blatant violation of fundamental rights” guaranteed under the Constitution of India.
In an official statement, SIFF said, “The people of Siang Valley have been opposing this proposed mega dam since the 1980s. The sudden deployment of armed forces and initiation of survey activities without our consent is not only undemocratic but also deeply hurtful to the indigenous sentiments of the region.”
In response, SIFF and the affected families have announced an indefinite dharna and peaceful protest starting from May 23, 2025, at the Beging dam survey site. They are demanding immediate withdrawal of security forces and suspension of all survey activities until proper consultations and consent processes are undertaken.
The protest is expected to draw attention from civil society groups, media, and political leaders as the situation unfolds. Protesters are calling upon the state and central governments, as well as human rights organizations, to intervene and uphold the democratic rights of the local communities.
Meanwhile, NHPC and government officials have yet to release an official response regarding the allegations and the CAPF deployment.
