Siang, Arunachal Pradesh | June 2, 2025 — The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of growing public protests in Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh against the proposed construction of a large dam. The Commission’s action comes after media reports highlighted people’s fears over possible displacement, loss of livelihoods, and harm to the environment.
The NHRC, in a press release dated June 2, 2025, stated that the concerns raised by the local population, if true, point to potential violations of human rights. To address the issue, the Commission has issued formal notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP) of Arunachal Pradesh, demanding a detailed report within two weeks.
Protest Led by Indigenous Farmers
According to the report published on May 23, 2025, a protest was organized by a human rights activist and Convenor of the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum. The demonstration took place in Beging village, where around 400 local residents gathered to voice their opposition to the dam project.
The villagers fear that the construction of the dam will lead to:
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Massive displacement of indigenous communities.
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Loss of agricultural land and traditional sources of livelihood.
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Damage to the region’s fragile ecosystem, particularly the Siang River, which is vital to the local environment and culture.
Many tribal groups and local farmers have been vocal in their concerns, saying that they were not properly consulted before the planning of the project began.
Deployment of Security Forces Raises Alarm
The situation became more tense when reports emerged that the government had deployed central armed forces in several areas of Siang district to manage the protests. This move has raised additional concerns about freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, as villagers say they are being intimidated for standing up for their rights.
Activists claim that instead of listening to the people’s voices, the administration is attempting to suppress the movement through force and fear.
NHRC Steps In
The NHRC has stressed that the rights to housing, livelihood, and environment are essential human rights, and any development project must take these into serious consideration. It emphasized the importance of consultation with affected communities and adherence to environmental and social safeguards.
The Commission has asked the Arunachal Pradesh government to:
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Provide a detailed status report on the dam project and its potential impact.
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Explain the reasons behind deploying central forces in a civilian protest.
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Clarify whether any rehabilitation and compensation plans are in place for those who may be affected.
Voices from the Ground
Local residents have expressed deep anxiety over losing their ancestral lands and fear that the cultural identity of tribal communities will be at risk. One protester stated, “We are not against development, but it should not come at the cost of our homes, rivers, and forests. We have lived here for generations.”
The protest is not just about the dam; it is part of a larger concern about development without consent and lack of transparency in decision-making.
What Happens Next?
The NHRC is expected to review the response from the Arunachal Pradesh government closely. Based on the findings, it may recommend corrective measures, including better engagement with local communities, halting the project until thorough impact assessments are conducted, and ensuring legal protection of the protesters’ rights.
