Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein has reiterated that the State government’s position on the proposed Siang Multipurpose Project remains focused on engaging with local communities.
Mein invited groups opposing the proposed project for further discussions, while maintaining that there was no difference between his position and that of Chief Minister Pema Khandu on the issue.
“The State government will speak with one voice. There is no difference of opinion on this issue from my side. I stand with the people of Arunachal Pradesh,” he said.
Clarifying the government’s position, he said both he and the Chief Minister had consistently referred to the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) rather than announcing plans to construct a dam.
“When have we ever spoken about building a dam? You can check your archives. Search and see whether Chowna Mein has ever spoken about constructing a dam. Has the Chief Minister ever said that?” he said.
Mein reiterated that the government’s approach had been to hold discussions with affected communities and address their concerns before taking the matter forward.
He said he had earlier invited community leaders to Itanagar for discussions and subsequently held another round of talks with members of the Adi-Galo Welfare Society at his residence.
