'Our duty is to maintain rule of law': Arunachal DGP on anti-dam protests in Upper Siang

A large anti-dam protest rally is underway in Yingkiong, the headquarters of Arunachal Pradesh's Upper Siang district, as opposition to the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) continued despite Chief Minister Pema Khandu's repeated appeals to anti-dam groups to engage in dialogue.

The rally is being organised by the Siang Upper Multi-Purpose Project Affected Area Youth Association and the youth wing of the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum. The district administration, which had earlier imposed restrictions on public gatherings and demonstrations amid heightened tensions in the region, granted permission for the rally subject to strict terms and conditions.

Reacting to the developments in the Siang region, Director General of Police Dr S D Singh Jamwal said the police would focus on maintaining law and order and take action against those found violating the law.

"We don't bother about the dam, PFR or any other issue in the Siang belt. Our duty is to maintain the rule of law, and whoever resorts to violence, commits a crime or breaks the law will be detained and arrested as per law," Jamwal said.

The administration had earlier imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), restricting gatherings of more than five people, the carrying of weapons, and unauthorised rallies and public meetings. The restrictions were scheduled to remain in force until November 10.

However, the administration subsequently permitted the rally organised by the two groups, subject to specified conditions.

Tensions have remained high in Yingkiong following violent anti-dam protests during Chief Minister Pema Khandu's visit to the region around two weeks ago. Incidents of vandalism, arson and attacks on security personnel were reported during the unrest.

The latest demonstration underscores the continuing opposition to the proposed multipurpose project in the Siang region, even as the state government has called for dialogue with groups opposing the project.

The police have reiterated that action will be taken against individuals found engaging in violence or other unlawful activities, irrespective of their position on the proposed project.