Litem Eshi ORI
BOLENG, Oct 9: The Adi Students’ Union (AdiSU), the apex students’ organisation of the Adi community, has appealed to the Siang district administration for the immediate withdrawal of paramilitary forces deployed in the district and suspension of activities related to the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) until the concerns of affected communities are addressed.
In a representation submitted to the Deputy Commissioner of Siang district on October 6, the AdiSU expressed concern over the prevailing situation in Siang and Upper Siang districts, stating that the deployment of paramilitary forces had created fear, apprehension and psychological distress among affected villagers.
The union linked the situation to the ongoing Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) process for the proposed project, claiming that affected villagers had strongly opposed the exercise and were determined to resist any action undertaken without their consent.
Stressing its commitment to protecting the rights and interests of the Adi community, AdiSU said it could not remain silent when villagers and landowners feared possible coercion over a project that could affect their land, livelihoods and future.
Describing the situation as highly sensitive and tense, the union said the prevailing atmosphere was not in the interests of either the government or the people. It maintained that peace and normalcy could be restored through de-escalation, dialogue and mutual understanding.
AdiSU further cautioned that the continued deployment of heavily armed forces in affected areas could aggravate tensions rather than address the concerns of local communities. It called for a peaceful and constructive approach that prioritises public confidence and meaningful engagement with affected villagers.
The union put forward two key demands: the immediate withdrawal of paramilitary forces deployed in Siang district and the suspension of the PFR process and other project-related activities being undertaken without the consent of affected communities.
The appeal comes amid continuing concerns and differing views among local communities over the proposed SUMP. AdiSU urged the district administration to take immediate steps to restore peace and normalcy and ensure that the rights, concerns and interests of the affected population are duly considered.