Violence Erupts in Arunachal Pradesh Amid Anti-Dam Protests
A 12-hour bandh against the Menga dam escalated into violence, damaging property and injuring security personnel.
Protests against the Menga dam in Arunachal Pradesh turned violent, with mobs attacking NHPC property.
Two security personnel were injured during the unrest, which spread from the Siang basin to the Subansiri valley.
Local leaders are calling for the withdrawal of central forces and the release of detained protesters.
Violence erupted in Arunachal Pradesh on Monday as a 12-hour bandh against the proposed Menga dam escalated into chaos. The protests, which began early in the morning, quickly spread from the Siang basin to the Subansiri valley, leading to significant property damage and injuries. In Daporijo town, approximately 220 kilometers west of Pasighat, mobs vandalized vehicles and NHPC equipment, resulting in injuries to two security personnel, including a constable and a CRPF member.
The unrest was fueled by concerns from local communities, particularly the Tagin and Adi tribes, regarding the impact of the Menga dam, part of the larger 1,605MW Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project. Protesters fear that the project threatens their land and livelihoods. The All Tagin Students’ Union and other organizations spearheaded the bandh, which was initially called in response to an alleged attempt to detain ATSU president Tadak Pakba.
Earlier in the week, similar protests in Pasighat led to widespread arson and clashes with security forces as demonstrators opposed the 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. The Siang river, which flows through the ancestral lands of the Adi community, has become a focal point for environmental and community concerns. The ongoing tensions highlight the deep-rooted fears among local populations regarding large-scale hydropower projects.
In response to the escalating situation, Upper Siang District Commissioner Ashok Tajo stated that the government is reviewing the cases of those detained during the protests. He emphasized that the release of these individuals would require further approvals. Protesters have demanded the withdrawal of central security forces from the area and have set a deadline for the government to address their concerns.
Looking ahead, local leaders are urging the government to facilitate dialogue between the villagers and authorities. The situation remains tense, and the outcome of these discussions could significantly impact future development projects in the region. As protests continue, the government faces increasing pressure to address the grievances of the affected communities and restore peace in Arunachal Pradesh.
