Arunachal: Vehicles torched, MLA’s residence vandalised during Siang dam project protests
Here's the latest protest news from across India:
Protests against the deployment of central paramilitary forces for surveys for a hydropower project on the Siang river at Beging in Arunachal Pradesh’s East Siang district intensified on Wednesday, with demonstrators blocking roads, clashing with security personnel and allegedly vandalising the residence of a local legislator during chief minister Pema Khandu’s visit to Yingkiong.
Adding to this, Wednesday’s unrest came two days after villagers clashed with security personnel at Geku Raising their voices against the proposed over 10,000-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) and the government’s move to carry out a Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) survey, protesters demanded an immediate halt to survey activities and the withdrawal of security forces from project-affected areas.
Meanwhile, Tensions escalated after protesters entered the residence of Tuting-Yingkiong MLA Alo Libang in Yingkiong and allegedly vandalised the premises while raising anti-dam slogans. Several government vehicles were also as per reports damaged, while a police vehicle was set ablaze near Dite Dime.
Notably, Security personnel intercepted protest rallies at some locations, leading to scuffles.
As per the latest buzz, Protesters also restricted movement outside a hotel where deputy chief minister Chowna Mein, ministers Ojing Tasing and Nyato Dukam, and chief minister’s advisor Ninong Ering were as per reports staying, affecting their movement to scheduled programmes.
In further updates, There have been a series of protests against SUMP, which is estimated to affect at least 100,000 residents who could be uprooted. There are also concerns about the environmental impact of the project involving construction activities on the Siang river.
On top of that, Wednesday’s unrest came two days after villagers clashed with security personnel at Geku. Government vehicles were damaged during the September 28 confrontation and four people were detained before being rolled out.
Opposition to the PFR has continued in Geku, Komkar and adjoining areas, where villagers have blocked roads to prevent machinery from reaching proposed survey locations.
Source: Hindustan Times