Assam Joins Arunachal in Siang River Dam Protest

Guwahati: In a display of solidarity, the people of Assam have joined the escalating protests in Arunachal Pradesh against the proposed construction of a dam on the Siang River. The movement, rallying under the slogan “No survey, No Dam,” emphasizes the importance of preserving the river’s natural flow, ensuring the sustenance of communities along its course, and safeguarding its journey to the sea.

The recent deployment of CRPF personnel at a primary school to facilitate the dam project has ignited widespread outrage. Critics vehemently condemn this action as a violation of the rule of law and demand its immediate withdrawal.

This incident follows the August 19, 2024 directive issued by the state police headquarters’ special branch to the Pasighat branch. This directive instructed the branch to assess potential security threats associated with the project’s survey and core drilling activities, specifically at locations like Parong, Dite Dime, and Uggeng. These locations witnessed significant protests from local villagers during that period.

Assamese protesters have unequivocally expressed their support for the people of Arunachal Pradesh, demonstrating a united front in the fight to protect the Siang River and uphold the rights of the local communities.