Protest against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project further intensified in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday, with protesters demanding the immediate release of those who were detained and withdrawal of cases filed as part of the anti-dam protest.
Young people and indigenous rights activists participated in the rally, carrying placards and raising slogans opposing the project. A few of the protesters were from the tribal community and they wrapped themselves in their traditional clothes and voiced their objections on the proposed hydropower project.
Protesters Demand Release of Detained Activists
The protesters demanded the release of those arrested during the protest. They also called on the authorities to close case files and drop charges against those protesting against the project.
The demonstrations coincide with escalating tensions stemming from surveys for the pre-feasibility stage of the planned hydropower project and police crackdowns against its critics.
The Upper Siang district administration on Friday directed the preventive detention proceedings under the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 2014, on four residents for October 9. They who were detained were named Adum Tayom, Omak Paron, Okut Paloh and Oson Paron.
Violence During October 23 Bandh
Things came to a boil on October 23, during a bandh when violence erupted in the anti-dam agitation.
Police then made 26 arrests, one of which was five juveniles. Eight criminal cases had been opened and six others were detained for interrogation over the incidents.
The project, which would produce 11,200 MWS is a major source of tension in the region, opposition raised by renewed protests.
The current escalation of the protest and the police comes as a rehashing of a dispute that has been continuing for a while. Opposition to the proposed hydropower project continues to drive demonstrations for the release of those held in custody and withdrawal of cases.