Youth Organization Calls for Withdrawal of CAPF from Siang Districts
Concerns Raised by the All Adi Youth Association
A file image of CAPF jawans barricading a road during a protest in Siang. (Photo:@YashwanthPhamar/X)
Itanagar, Oct 6: The All Adi Youth Association (AAYA), representing the Adi community across three districts in Arunachal Pradesh, has called for the immediate withdrawal of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel stationed in Siang and Upper Siang districts.
During a press briefing at the Arunachal Press Club, AAYA emphasized the importance of dialogue and traditional community methods to address the ongoing tensions regarding the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).
The organization criticized the deployment of CAPF as an inappropriate response to community issues and urged authorities to remove the forces to help restore harmony.
AAYA highlighted the need for a proper village-level consultation process involving the 27 project-affected villages before any further actions are taken.
Traditionally, the Adi community has resolved internal conflicts through dialogue and the customary Keba system, according to the organization.
Additionally, AAYA demanded the withdrawal of FIRs against protesters and the revocation of suspension orders against government officials.
The group also called for a more transparent approach to address concerns regarding the proposed project.
They alleged that several gaon burahs (GBs) faced suspension for their involvement in protests against the SUMP and related survey activities.
AAYA questioned the process of signing memoranda of understanding (MoUs) for the project, claiming that consent was being selectively obtained from villages.
If the SUMP is deemed a project of national significance, AAYA argued that the government should conduct broader awareness campaigns in affected villages to explain the project and its implications.
These demands arise amid escalating tensions in Siang district due to opposition against survey activities for the mega project, with reports of over eight security personnel injured during recent protests.
In response, Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the necessity of dialogue and addressing the concerns of the people regarding the SUMP.
While engaging with various stakeholders in Pasighat, East Siang district, Khandu stated that discussions about the future of the Siang River must consider the perspectives of the communities residing along its banks.
“The Siang holds significant meaning for the local population. Therefore, any discussion about its future must start with listening,” Khandu remarked in a social media update following the meeting.
Opponents of the SUMP continue to demand the cessation of PFR-related surveys and the withdrawal of security forces from the impacted areas.
However, the state government maintains that the ongoing assessments are solely for evaluating the feasibility of the proposed project and do not signify a final decision to construct the dam.