Thousands of people participated in a massive solidarity rally in Itanagar, today to register their protest against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).
The protesters, carrying placards and raising slogans against the project, marched from Akashdeep to IG Park in Itanagar this morning.
They demanded the release of activists detained in connection with the anti-dam agitation and withdrawal of cases against them.
Some of the protesters took part in the rally in traditional tribal attire, and called for the protection of rivers, land, indigenous identity, and the rights of local communities.
The rally was organised by Youth for Change, Siang Indigenous People, and CJP.
The agitation comes amid tensions over pre-feasibility report surveys for the proposed hydropower project and police action against those opposing it.
On October 9, the Upper Siang district administration ordered the preventive detention of four residents under the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 2014. They were identified as Adum Tayom, Omak Paron, Okut Paloh and Oson Paron.
Tensions escalated during a bandh on October 23, when violence broke out in connection with the anti-dam agitation. Police subsequently reported 26 arrests, including five juveniles. Six other people were detained for questioning, and eight criminal cases were registered.
