Unrest Erupts Over Proposed Siang Project

Recent protests surrounding the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) of the proposed Siang hydroelectric project in Arunachal Pradesh have escalated, resulting in the vandalism of local property. The civil unrest has prompted senior political figures to step in, urging all protesting factions to return to the negotiating table before the situation deteriorates further.

Former Union Minister of State and Pasighat West MLA, Ninong Ering, has strongly advocated for structured dialogue between the government, local communities, and project stakeholders. Ering emphasized that access to the PFR is a crucial prerequisite to fully understanding the project's socio-environmental ramifications, including potential displacement and submergence risks.

Concerns Over Transparency and Agitation

Addressing the media, Ering expressed apprehension that the protests are veering away from legitimate democratic dissent into unlawful destruction. While defending the public's constitutional right to peaceful demonstrations, strikes, and sit-ins, he drew a firm line against violence and theft.

"We must have the PFR because we want to understand how the dam will affect the people, which areas are likely to be submerged, and what its overall impact will be. We do not want another Chipko movement or Tehri Dam movement. Unfortunately, we are already on the back foot because of the agitation," Ering stated.

The MLA also raised questions regarding the demography of the protesters, noting intelligence reports indicating the presence of agitators from outside the immediate project zones, specifically from Siang and Upper Siang districts. He questioned the underlying motivations and external influences shaping the ongoing demonstrations.

Call for Direct Negotiations

In his capacity as an adviser to the Arunachal Pradesh Minister for Hydro Power Development, Ering reached out directly to organizations such as the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum. He urged leaders to abandon confrontation and pursue constructive deliberations.

"We have to sit together and find a solution. I would like to request the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum and all other organisations to come forward for discussions. Without deliberations and dialogue, how can we move forward? Arguments and counterarguments are inevitable, but we must find a way forward through talks," Ering emphasized.

Meanwhile, local administration and law enforcement have ramped up security measures across sensitive zones, supplemented by the deployment of central security forces to maintain public order and safeguard infrastructure.

Addressing Cross-Border Water Security

Beyond domestic concerns, Ering also highlighted the geopolitical dimensions of large-scale dam construction in the upper riparian regions. He called upon the Union government to proactively initiate diplomatic discussions with China regarding a comprehensive water treaty.

With Beijing aggressively pursuing upstream dam infrastructure along transboundary rivers, Ering stressed that New Delhi must secure formal frameworks to protect the ecological and livelihood interests of downstream communities in India's Northeast.