| Staff REPORTER |
Itanagar, Jul 14: The United Arunachal People's Forum (UAPF) has announced that it will organise a mega rally in the Itanagar Capital Region on August 3 to press the State Government to act on its three-point charter of demands.
Addressing reporters here, UAPF leaders reiterated their demands for the withdrawal of the smart prepaid electricity meter system, de-reservation of forest land in the ICR, and an investigation into alleged financial irregularities in the construction of the Dari-Chambang road in Kra-Daadi district.
UAPF president Khyoda Daniel sought a thorough probe into the alleged misuse of more than Rs 121 crore sanctioned for the Dari-Chambang road project. He alleged that although the actual road length between Dari and Chambang is about 26 km, funds were reportedly withdrawn for constructing a 38-40 km stretch. He demanded strict action against those responsible, including blacklisting of the executing firms.
On the power sector, the forum demanded the immediate withdrawal of the smart prepaid metering system, restoration of conventional postpaid billing and provision of free electricity up to 1,000 units per month for domestic consumers.
UAPF general secretary Dangu Mama said the prepaid system has adversely affected economically weaker sections, daily wage earners, pensioners and rural consumers due to frequent power disconnections, recharge charges and difficulties in accessing digital payment facilities.
He urged the government to introduce a special power subsidy policy and ensure that the benefits of the state's hydropower resources are shared with its people.
On the issue of land, the forum demanded de-reservation or rationalisation of forest areas within the ICR and adjoining regions. It claimed that the notification of the Durpang Reserved Forest and Wildlife Sanctuary in 1979 continues to create obstacles in obtaining land possession certificates, building permissions, bank loans and implementing public infrastructure projects.
The forum also alleged that several indigenous villages were included within reserved forest boundaries without adequate consultation and called for the regularisation of traditional land holdings.
Recalling that it had submitted a 14-day ultimatum to the State Government on June 19, the forum said a subsequent meeting with Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein and Power Department officials failed to produce any concrete outcome.
Appealing to the government to address its demands, the UAPF said the issues concern public welfare, development and accountability in governance.