Photo Courtesy: nenow
Itanagar: Unrest has gripped the Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh after a demonstration against the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) turned violent. On Monday, a group of protesters vandalized properties belonging to more than two dozen individuals in Geku, including the residence of local legislator Oni Panyang.
The violence followed a gathering of anti-dam activists who oppose the government's approach to infrastructure development in the region. The conflict stems from an agreement signed on Saturday by 110 households in Geku that authorized a pre-feasibility study for the dam. The signing ceremony featured high-profile attendance, including Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, and legislators Ninong Ering and Oni Panyang.
Opponents of the project argue that government incentives are being used to fracture local unity and weaken resistance against large-scale hydropower efforts. Critics suggest that the move undermines collective efforts to oppose the project, stating, "incentives offered by the government are being used to influence public opinion and create divisions within local communities."
Although no formal police complaints have been filed, district authorities and security agencies are actively working to restore order. Officials are monitoring the area as they attempt to balance the need for peace with the ongoing community debate surrounding the controversial infrastructure proposal.
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