The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) has expressed concern over the prevailing tension surrounding the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in the Siang region of Arunachal Pradesh.
In a letter to Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu, the forum appealed to the chief minister to take timely and constructive initiatives to maintain peace and promote dialogue among all concerned parties.
“We recognise that the SUMP issue involves important considerations relating to development, indigenous rights and concerns, agricultural livelihoods and the future of the communities in the Siang region. We believe that such matters require a sensitive, transparent and consultative approach where the concerns of affected communities are heard with respect and addressed through peaceful and democratic means,” ACF president James Techi Tara stated.
The forum urged the state government to initiate a process of meaningful and constructive dialogue with the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum (SIFF) along with other concerned stakeholders to address apprehensions, reduce misunderstandings and prevent further escalation of tensions.
“We believe that open communication, mutual respect and a willingness to listen to one another can create an atmosphere conducive to peace. A peaceful resolution through dialogue would help preserve social harmony, strengthen public confidence and protect the unity and brotherhood of our people,” Tara stated.
“In the spirit of Christian service and our broader commitment to the common good, the Arunachal Christian Forum hereby offers its good offices to facilitate and mediate preliminary peace talks between the Government of Arunachal Pradesh and the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum, subject to the willingness and consent of both parties,” the ACF president stated.
He however clarified that the forum’s proposed role would be strictly limited to facilitating communication, encouraging mutual understanding, building confidence and helping establish a peaceful platform for dialogue.
