Formation of Peace Committee to Address Siang Upper Multipurpose Project Tensions

In light of rising tensions surrounding the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum has established a peace committee to facilitate dialogue and restore calm in the region. The committee aims to prevent violence and protect indigenous communities while addressing concerns related to the project. Additionally, the Arunachal Christian Forum has offered to mediate discussions between the State Government and local farmers. Both organizations emphasize the importance of peaceful engagement and mutual understanding to resolve the ongoing issues. This initiative highlights the need for a sensitive approach to development that respects the rights and aspirations of affected communities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 29, 2026, 11:23 IST

Peace Committee Established Amid Ongoing Tensions

A file image of an earlier protest against Siang Upper Multipurpose Project

Itanagar, Oct 29: In response to the escalating violence and unrest in the Siang region regarding the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF) has established a seven-member peace committee.

During a press briefing at the Arunachal Press Club on Wednesday, AITF general secretary Tapi Tai announced the formation of the committee, which aims to restore peace, prevent further violence, and protect indigenous communities through constructive dialogue.

Chaired by AITF vice-president Gomar Basar, the committee comprises members from various community organizations.

According to Tai, the committee's role will include facilitating discussions between the State Government and the protesting factions, preventing further violence and property damage, and proposing confidence-building measures to restore normalcy in the area.

The committee has been tasked with delivering its report within 20 days of its formation.

The AITF has urged all parties involved to maintain restraint and avoid violent actions amidst the ongoing tensions.

Basar, the committee chairman, expressed concerns regarding the presence of security forces in the Siang area, labeling the deployment as unacceptable and asserting that it has instilled fear among local indigenous populations.

He called for the withdrawal of security personnel from the region, emphasizing the need for actions that would alleviate tensions and promote a peaceful resolution regarding the SUMP.

Additionally, the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) has proposed to mediate discussions between the State Government and the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum (SIFF) to foster peace in the area.

The ACF has urged the State Government to engage in peaceful dialogue with stakeholders concerning the SUMP, offering to facilitate initial discussions between the Government and SIFF.

In a letter to Chief Minister Pema Khandu, the ACF requested prompt actions to address concerns, clarify misunderstandings, and avert further escalation of tensions related to the project.

The forum recognized that the SUMP issue encompasses development, indigenous rights, agricultural livelihoods, and the future of communities in the Siang region. It advocated for a sensitive, transparent, and consultative approach that honors the perspectives and aspirations of the affected communities.

Clarifying its stance, the ACF stated that its initiative is neither in favor of nor against the project but is focused on facilitating communication, fostering mutual understanding, and creating a platform for peaceful engagement.

“Peace must precede progress, dialogue must replace confrontation, and mutual understanding must guide the resolution of public concerns,” the representation emphasized.

These initiatives arise amid ongoing tensions regarding the proposed project, with both organizations advocating for restraint, dialogue, and measures to restore peace and public trust in the Siang region.