In the aftermath of violent demonstrations in Pasighat over the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has called upon opposing civil groups and community leaders to sit across the table and resolve their grievances through peaceful dialogue. The appeal follows widespread disturbances, arson, and property damage in the region during demonstrations organized against the massive hydropower initiative.
Shutdown Escalation and Widespread Property Damage
Tensions flared on Friday in Pasighat during a 12-hour bandh called to voice opposition against the planned 11,200-MW power generation installation. The situation rapidly deteriorated after security personnel deployed tear gas shells and baton charges to scatter demonstrators, which prompted protesters to torch an NHPC office. Multiple participants, including students and women, suffered injuries during the police action.
The unrest led to targeted attacks on critical administrative hubs and private residences. Crowds assaulted the Pasighat Police Station, the Adi Baane Kebang complex, and the NHPC premises. Demonstrators also entered and ransacked the residential properties of local legislators Oni Panyang and Ninong Ering, alongside the home of state BJP president Kaling Moyong, where incidents of looting and theft occurred. Furthermore, two operational police vehicles were incinerated as the confrontation deepened.
Government Stance on Lawful Dissent and Consensus
Responding to the deterioration of order, Khandu noted that the shutdown had proceeded without major incident across Siang district, Upper Siang district, and Pasighat during daylight hours, making the post-bandh unrest particularly unfortunate. While affirming the democratic right to organize peaceful protests, the Chief Minister stressed that public agitation must strictly respect legal boundaries and avoid vandalism or disrupting societal peace.
Khandu emphasized that public consensus remains essential for advancing the project. He stated that the administration is eager to address every facet of the plan, encompassing anticipated developmental benefits, environmental or socio-economic risks, and the specific hesitations raised by local communities.
Open Offer for Multi-Stakeholder Discussions
The state government has indicated that communication channels remain entirely accessible to any association, body, or representative seeking answers regarding the proposed project. The Chief Minister offered to hold formal discussions in Itanagar, Pasighat, or another venue preferred by the stakeholders from the Siang belt.
Khandu also confirmed his readiness to travel directly to any location chosen by local delegates, accompanied by departmental authorities, to clarify doubts on the ground. He reiterated that round-table meetings and institutional procedures represent the proper path for resolving public grievances, urging all sides to maintain calm and protect stability across the state.
