Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung has appealed for peace in the Siang region amid growing protests over the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). He urged protesters and local groups to avoid violence and follow the law. Natung said the ongoing Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) only assesses the project’s capacity and feasibility.
He clarified that the survey does not mean the government has taken a final decision to implement the project. His appeal followed clashes between protesters and security personnel during PFR-related activities at Riga and Ugeng.
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Key Facts
- Location: Siang region, Arunachal Pradesh
- Project: Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP)
- Current stage: Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR)
- Key official: Home Minister Mama Natung
- Reported incidents: Clashes between protesters and security personnel
- Concerns: Land, livelihoods, displacement, biodiversity and ancestral territories
Home Minister Clarifies SUMP Status
Mama Natung said the government currently conducts a survey to understand the proposed project’s capacity and feasibility.
According to the minister, the PFR does not represent a final approval for the SUMP. He said authorities could abandon the project if the assessment produces negative findings.
The clarification comes as opposition to the proposed project continues across parts of the Siang region.
Clashes Reported During Survey Activities
Tensions increased after clashes reportedly occurred between protesters and security personnel at Riga and Ugeng during activities linked to the PFR.
Several people reportedly suffered injuries during the confrontations. The reported injured included Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel and an Assistant Commandant.
However, authorities have not officially confirmed the exact number of people injured.
Natung strongly condemned the reported attack on paramilitary personnel at Riga village. He also urged protesters and security forces to maintain restraint and prevent further escalation.
Appeal for Dialogue
The Home Minister also called on groups opposing the proposed dam project to communicate their concerns through dialogue.
He urged anti-dam protesters to meet government representatives and discuss their grievances peacefully. Natung said the government under Chief Minister Pema Khandu would listen to the concerns of affected communities.
The minister also linked peace with development in the region. He stressed that violence could make it more difficult to achieve development goals.
Local Concerns Over Siang Project
The SUMP has remained a major point of contention in the Siang region. Several local communities have strongly opposed the project and activities connected with its assessment.
Protesters have raised concerns about the possible impact on land, livelihoods and ancestral territories. They have also expressed concerns about displacement and potential effects on the region’s biodiversity.
For many local communities, the proposed project has therefore become an important environmental and social issue.
Government Maintains PFR Is an Initial Assessment
The Arunachal Pradesh government has repeatedly maintained that the PFR represents only an initial technical assessment.
Officials say the survey will help determine whether the proposed project is technically and economically feasible. Therefore, the ongoing assessment does not automatically mean that authorities will implement the project.
At the same time, the government has encouraged concerned communities to communicate their concerns through peaceful discussions.
Peace Remains a Priority
Natung’s latest appeal comes amid heightened tensions in the Siang region. He urged all sides to avoid actions that could disturb public order.
The Home Minister said peaceful conditions remain essential for development. The government’s appeal for dialogue also seeks to prevent further clashes while the technical assessment continues.
The issue is likely to remain sensitive as authorities assess the project and local communities continue to voice their concerns.
Questions and Answers
What is the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project?
SUMP is a proposed multipurpose project in Arunachal Pradesh’s Siang region.
What is the current status of the project?
Authorities are conducting a Pre-Feasibility Report to assess its capacity and feasibility.
Has the government approved the project?
No. Home Minister Mama Natung said the PFR does not represent a final decision to implement the project.
Why are local communities protesting?
Protesters have raised concerns about land, livelihoods, displacement, biodiversity and ancestral territories.
What did the Home Minister appeal for?
Natung urged protesters to maintain peace, avoid violence and discuss their concerns with the government.
Location Context
The Siang region of Arunachal Pradesh holds major environmental, cultural and livelihood significance for local communities. The ongoing debate over the proposed project has therefore attracted strong local opposition and remains an important development issue in Northeast India.
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