Adi groups protest 11,200 MW Siang dam, warn of India-China tension

Adi organisations, led by Adi Bane Kebang-United, allege that the Centre’s drive to build the 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is converting the Siang region into a contested front between India and China. They report that roughly 80% of households in the slated villages oppose the scheme and have warned both central and state authorities against launching a pre-feasibility survey without community approval. The study would involve drilling along the Siang River, endangering 27 Adi-populated settlements in Siang, Upper Siang and East Siang districts with possible displacement and submergence.

The group claims the state government is feeding misleading information to the Centre and is attempting to curb opposition, noting that spokesperson Datik Ratan had two of his Facebook accounts blocked. Ratan has called on Chief Minister Pema Khandu to hold a public debate, arguing that development must not be forced onto tribal lands.