Staff REPORTER
ITANAGAR, Nov 7: The Arunachal Pradesh government on Saturday released four protesters — Adum Tayom, Omak Paron, Okut Paloh and Oson Paron — who had been detained under the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 2014, in connection with the agitation against the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).
The release follows a communication issued by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) on November 6, conveying the government's decision as a goodwill gesture to create a conducive atmosphere for dialogue and reconciliation.
The government has also approved the reinstatement of Gaon Burahs and Gaon Buris who had faced disciplinary action in connection with the agitation.
Reports indicate that around 10 people, including activists, have been detained in connection with the SUMP-related protests.
The CMO communication addressed four key demands raised by the Siang Indigenous Farmers' Forum (SIFF), concerning the release of detainees, withdrawal of security forces, withdrawal of criminal cases and reinstatement of suspended village authorities and government employees.
On the demand for withdrawal of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel from the Siang Valley, the government stated that the matter would be discussed at the proposed meeting with SIFF, taking into account the prevailing law-and-order and security situation.
Regarding the withdrawal of FIRs, the government maintained that the matter would have to follow due legal process, while expressing its willingness to discuss the issue during the proposed dialogue.
However, no decision has yet been announced on the reinstatement of government employees who were suspended or terminated in connection with the agitation.
Reiterating its commitment to finding a mutually acceptable solution to the concerns raised by the Adi community, the government has urged SIFF to resume dialogue with Chief Minister Pema Khandu. It has also asked the organisation to communicate a convenient date for the proposed meeting and submit the list of delegates.
The development comes amid continuing opposition to the proposed mega dam project over concerns relating to displacement, submergence of ancestral villages, environmental impact and protection of indigenous rights.
Meanwhile, the Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has welcomed the release of the four protesters but said it should be viewed as an initial step towards addressing the wider grievances of the affected communities.
APCC president Bosiram Siram urged the government to withdraw all remaining cases against protesters, release other detainees and revoke suspension orders against government employees allegedly penalised for supporting peaceful democratic expressions.
The party also sought reinstatement of suspended village heads, withdrawal of SIC cases wherever legally justified, and an independent inquiry into allegations of police excesses, intimidation and harassment of protesters and villagers.
It further demanded withdrawal of security forces from civilian and SUMP-affected villages and called for transparent disclosure of criminal and administrative proceedings initiated in connection with the agitation.
The APCC said the release of the four detainees should be followed by meaningful engagement with affected communities, indigenous organisations and other stakeholders. It maintained that the SUMP issue extended beyond hydropower development to questions of indigenous rights, livelihood security, democratic freedoms and the future of the Siang River.
The party reiterated its opposition to the proposed project and urged the government to address the remaining demands to restore trust and facilitate dialogue.