ES Reporter 

ITANAGAR, Dec 12: The Arunachal Democratic Party (ADP) has expressed strong opposition to the government's handling of the contentious Siang Upper Multipurpose Hydro Project, claiming it directly impacts thousands of villagers who rely on forests, land, and rivers for their livelihood.
Speaking at a press briefing, ADP President Tami Pangu stated, “We don’t want another incident like the Tawang shooting, where two people lost their lives while protesting against a dam. The government must learn from past mistakes.”
The project has faced widespread resistance from local communities. The ADP alleges that the government has failed to secure the trust and consent of the affected people. Written endorsements by three MLAs supporting the project have done little to sway public opinion, with villagers continuing to oppose what they view as an imposition.
Pangu questioned the deployment of paramilitary forces for the Preliminary Feasibility Report (PFR), raising concerns about the government's approach. “Is there an armed rebellion in Siang? If not, why are paramilitary forces being deployed? If any untoward incident occurs, who will take responsibility?” he questioned.
He further argued that using force in a democratic country to push through development projects is against fundamental rights and amounts to an anti-people act. “Every development project should be people-friendly. Forcing such initiatives on the majority who oppose them is undemocratic and unacceptable,” Pangu added.
The ADP has appealed to Chief Minister Pema Khandu to withdraw the use of force and convene an all party high-level meeting and constitute a committee  including CBOs to address the issue through dialogue. The party insists that the government must prioritize the interests of the people and find a resolution that respects democratic principles.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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