Violent Protests Erupt Over Hydropower Project in Siang Region
Protests Escalate in Siang
A file image of CAPF jawans barricading a road during a protest in Siang. (Photo:@YashwanthPhamar/X)
Itanagar, Oct 1: Protests against a proposed hydropower initiative in the Siang area escalated into violence on Wednesday, with demonstrators vandalizing the residence of the local MLA, obstructing roads, clashing with law enforcement, and damaging government vehicles.
The unrest in Yingkiong, located in Upper Siang district, disrupted Chief Minister Pema Khandu's planned meetings with government officials and community leaders. During these discussions, he highlighted the dual challenges of unexpected high river flows and water shortages during dry periods, emphasizing the importance of effective water management.
Protesters are demanding an immediate halt to the ongoing Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) activities and the survey work associated with the project on the Siang River. They are also calling for the withdrawal of security forces stationed in potentially affected areas.
In contrast, the government asserts that the 11,000 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project will foster economic and social development, create job opportunities for the youth, and enhance water and energy security for both the state and the nation.
During the protests, demonstrators forcibly entered the home of Tuting-Yingkiong MLA Alo Libang in Yingkiong, where several ministers and MLAs were present, and caused significant damage, according to a senior district official. They also blocked the Yingkiong-Komkar-Geku Road and routes leading to Dite Dime.
Protesters gathered outside the Grand Siang Hotel, preventing Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, along with Cabinet ministers Ojing Tasing and Nyato Dukam, and the Chief Minister’s Adviser Ninong Ering from attending Khandu's program.
Waving placards with messages like ‘No PFR, No Survey’ and ‘Go Back CM’, the protesters criticized the decision to hold an official meeting instead of engaging directly with the communities that would be impacted by the project.
Security forces intervened to stop a rally moving from the general ground towards the lower market, leading to confrontations. A police vehicle was set on fire near the Dite Dime bridge, and several government cars were damaged in various locations, as reported by officials.
This outbreak of violence followed a clash on September 28 between villagers and Central Armed Police Forces in Geku, resulting in the brief detention of four individuals.
The proposed scale of the hydropower project and its potential effects on local villages and communities in the Siang Valley have sparked significant opposition from residents, who are demanding more consultation and clarity regarding its consequences.
The state government has clarified that the PFR activities are merely a preliminary technical evaluation and do not signify approval for the dam's construction. Khandu has assured that the project will not proceed if deemed technically unfeasible and will not be implemented against the will of the people.
Despite the protests and road blockades, Upper Siang Deputy Commissioner Ashok Tajo confirmed that Khandu successfully completed his scheduled official meeting in Yingkiong before departing the district by helicopter.