Arunachal Minister Ojing Tasing defends SUMP, says protests must not violate law and order

Arunachal Pradesh Minister Ojing Tasing has defended the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), stating that the government is open to dialogue with concerned stakeholders but will not tolerate violence or violations of law and order in the name of protests.

Tasing claimed that Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s recent visit to Siang and Upper Siang districts was intended for interactions with government officials. He said the Adi Baane Kebang (ABK)-United had not sought an appointment to meet the Chief Minister and alleged that the protests against the project were sponsored.

Condemning the reported attack on the residence of an MLA, the minister said protests could not justify violence, trespassing or what he described as hooliganism. He maintained that public representatives’ homes should not be targeted during demonstrations.

On compensation for people likely to be affected by the project, Tasing said the amount would be appropriate and substantial if the project were allowed to proceed. He emphasised that the government was willing to hold discussions and provide clarifications to anyone seeking information about the proposed development.

Describing SUMP as a national project, the minister appealed to people to support its implementation in the national interest. He also referred to the need to respond to China’s proposed mega dam projects and said the Siang project should be allowed to proceed with the preparation of its Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR).

Tasing reiterated that the government was ready for dialogue but would not accept attempts to disrupt law and order under the guise of protests. His remarks come amid continuing debate over the proposed project, including concerns among sections of local communities.