Massive Protest in Delhi Against Siang Upper Multipurpose Project

Protest Against Hydropower Project

New Delhi, Nov 1: On Saturday, Delhi Police apprehended numerous students and environmental activists who surrounded Arunachal Bhawan in the capital, protesting against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Arunachal Pradesh.

The protesters called for the immediate release of all individuals detained during the ongoing protests in Arunachal Pradesh, the cancellation of the proposed project, and the withdrawal of Central Armed Police Forces stationed in the state.

Organized by Himkhand and Youth for Change, the demonstration featured protesters chanting anti-dam slogans and denouncing police actions against those opposing the project.

Among those detained was well-known hydropower activist Katon Moyong, also known as Aborman. A significant police presence was noted outside Arunachal Bhawan, indicating the expanding geographical scope of the anti-dam movement.

This protest occurs amidst rising tensions in Arunachal Pradesh, where local communities have voiced concerns about the proposed project, fearing potential displacement of villages, loss of ancestral lands, ecological harm, and threats to their cultural identity and traditional lifestyles.

The state government is pushing to advance the hydropower project, while opposing groups insist that the concerns and consent of indigenous communities must be prioritized before any further action.

Last week, the agitation turned violent in Pasighat when police deployed tear gas to disperse protesters, leading to stone-pelting, injuries among security personnel, and significant damage to both public and private property. Indigenous organizations, such as the Adi Bane Ke bang United and the Siang Indigenous Farmers’ Forum, are leading the opposition, warning of displacement and irreversible environmental impacts in the ecologically sensitive and seismically active Siang region.

The demonstrators stated that the Delhi protest aimed to amplify the concerns of affected communities beyond Arunachal Pradesh and to draw the Centre's attention to the escalating resistance against the project.

This protest coincided with the state government's expressed willingness to engage with project opponents.

On October 30, Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein stated that the government was open to discussions with all stakeholders, including community organizations, student groups, and civil society entities that have raised concerns regarding SUMP.

He emphasized the need to resolve differences through constructive dialogue, informed discussions, and expert consultations.