Northeast Desk, 7th September: In Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Siang district, several government employees and ‘gaon burahs’ (village heads) have received show cause notices from the district administration for allegedly participating in protests against the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). The notices, issued by Upper Siang Deputy Commissioner Hage Lailang, are based on concerns of insubordination and misconduct under the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964, which prohibit government employees from striking or criticizing government policies.
The controversy stems from a protest rally held on August 31 in Dite Dime, organized by anti-dam groups opposing the SUMP, a major hydropower initiative by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). The project, which aims to generate 12,500 MW of electricity, faces criticism from local communities, who argue it threatens their land, environment, and way of life.
Lailang confirmed the issuance of the notices but declined to specify the number of recipients, citing confidentiality. The Upper Siang and Siang district administrations had previously instructed government officials and ‘gaon burahs’ to refrain from participating in protests against government policies.
The Siang Indigenous Farmers’ Forum (SIFF), which is leading the anti-dam movement, has criticized the administration’s actions. SIFF President Gegong Jijong contended that government employees, being locals, have valid reasons to protest and defend their rights. He argued that ‘gaon burahs’ are not bound by the CCS rules and should be able to voice their concerns without facing disciplinary action.
The SUMP is viewed by the government and NHPC as a key development project aimed at boosting regional infrastructure and economic growth. However, opposition from the Adi community underscores ongoing tensions between development objectives and indigenous rights.
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