Arunachal Pradesh, traditionally one of the more peaceful states in the Northeast, is witnessing disturbing law and order problems. The Centre’s decision to rush several companies of paramilitary forces to contain the violence indicates the gravity of the situation. What has triggered the unrest is the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), an 11,200 MW mega-dam on the Siang River.

The agitation raises questions that go far beyond a single infrastructure project. The indigenous population fears that the dam will submerge vast tracts of ancestral land, agricultural fields and horticultural areas, potentially displacing up to 1.5 lakh people.

The Siang is integral to their lives, sustaining agriculture, cattle grazing and everyday needs. They are also apprehensive about the safety of constructing such a massive structure........

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