Full Breakdown
Siang Upper Multipurpose Project Protests Escalate in Arunachal Pradesh
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Violent Protests and Security Response
On October 23 protests against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) turned violent in Pasighat, East Siang district. Demonstrators set fire to the NHPC office, damaged a police station and vandalised homes of political leaders. Security forces responded with tear-gas shells; dozens of police and central-armed personnel were injured. The district magistrate imposed restrictions on public gatherings in Pasighat, Mebo and Ruksin under Section 163 of the BNSS.
Background & Context
The Indian government presents SUMP as a buffer against China’s upstream Medog scheme on the Yarlung Tsangpo. The project is still at the pre-feasibility stage, with a report to assess technical and geological viability. Indigenous Adi groups, including the Siang Indigenous Farmers’ Forum (SIFF) and the Adi Banne Kebang, oppose the dam over fears of displacement, loss of ancestral lands, ecological damage and seismic risk.
Timeline of Key Developments
- September 29 – CM Pema Khandu said the administration would not proceed beyond feasibility if experts deem the project unsuitable.
- September 30 – Khandu’s convoy was stopped by anti-dam protesters in Yingkiong.
- October 23 – Bandh ended; violence erupted in Pasighat.
- October 24 – Deputy commissioner Jayanti Pertin ordered gathering restrictions from 5 p.m.
- October 25 – The Centre dispatched two RAF companies, about 250 personnel, to Arunachal Pradesh.
Data & Statistics
- Proposed capacity: 11,200 MW.
- Estimated live storage: ? 9.2 billion m³ (government claim).
- RAF deployment: ? 250 personnel; additional CRPF battalions already present.
- Reported injuries: over 40 police personnel; several central-force members hospitalized.
Official Statements & Responses
State authorities stress that the PFR is a scientific assessment, not a construction approval. District magistrate Jayanti Pertin said law and order were under control and that restrictions would remain until further orders. CM Pema Khandu condemned the violence, urged dialogue, and reiterated that no final decision on the dam has been taken. A senior NHPC official reported one office completely gutted and another partially damaged, but declined a full damage assessment pending security clearance. The central government framed the project as essential for water-security and flood-moderation.
Criticism & Opposition
Opposition leaders argue the project proceeds without genuine community consent. APCC president Bosiram Siram warned that lack of consultation could displace a large population. Resident Tajom Ejing of Geku village criticised the deployment of military forces instead of direct dialogue. The SIFF contends that household signatures do not substitute for broader tribal consultations.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the extent of property damage. A senior NHPC official described one office “completely gutted” while other reports note only vandalism. Injury figures also vary: some outlets cite “over 40” police injured, others mention “several” central-force personnel and “four” women hospitalized after tear-gas exposure.
What’s Next
The PFR will run for three months beginning in November 2026 and conclude in January 2027, examining site locations, seismic risk and water-storage benefits. The state government has pledged to keep its “doors always open” for community discussions, while security forces remain on heightened alert.