Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu accused activists from outside the state of spreading misinformation about the proposed 12,500 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. He stated that the project was not merely a dam but a comprehensive initiative aimed at multi-faceted development.
“This is not only about constructing Siang dam; it is a multipurpose project. This is a big project, and there are some people who are creating confusion among the masses,” Khandu said while addressing media persons at the Police Training Centre in Banderdewa, where he inaugurated an integrated sports complex and other infrastructure projects on Wednesday.
The Chief Minister alleged that several activists were misleading villagers about the project and vowed to address the issue comprehensively. “I assure you that I will address this issue.
Tomorrow, I will share the details and the viewpoints of both the state and central governments,” he added.
Khandu stressed the importance of respecting democratic rights but affirmed his responsibility to present the facts to the people.
Meanwhile, residents of Komkar village in Upper Siang district staged protests against the project and the deployment of security forces for the pre-feasibility report (PFR) in affected districts. Protesters, primarily women, raised banners and placards highlighting concerns over displacement, loss of ancestral lands, and threats to biodiversity.
They demanded the immediate withdrawal of security forces and the suspension of the project, accusing the government of violating their rights.
The protests come ahead of Khandu's visit to Boleng in Siang district, where he is scheduled to inaugurate a district hospital and a circuit house, and attend a Thanksgiving programme hosted by Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tasing.
The controversy has intensified after the Siang district administration reportedly asked local leaders to assist in the repair and maintenance of Riew Primary School to accommodate the CAPF team.
The Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum (SIFF) opposed the move, alleging violations of the Gauhati High Court's 2022 order, which had cancelled all 44 proposed dam projects on the Siang River.
Activists have also criticised the deployment of CAPF personnel, terming it an attempt to intimidate locals.
Anti-dam activist Ebo Mili alleged, “The heavy security deployment is intended to intimidate local residents opposing the project,” questioning the necessity of such action at the project’s initial stage.
SIFF and other organisations, including the All Adi Welfare Society and Bango Students Union, have called for halting pre-feasibility surveys until proper consent is obtained from stakeholders. Protests at key locations, such as Dite Dime Bridge over the Siang River, reflect growing local resistance.
The Siang project, which has sparked fierce debate, remains a contentious issue in Arunachal Pradesh, with activists and residents expressing deep concerns about its socio-environmental impact.
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