The Arunachal Pradesh government released four activists detained for opposing the proposed 11,000-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), in a move aimed at easing tensions and restarting dialogue with the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum (SIFF).
The activists — Adum Tayeng, Omak Peron, Okut Paloh and Oson Peron — were detained under the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 2014, on October 9 following protests against the proposed hydropower project.
The government took the decision as a goodwill gesture to de-escalate tensions and create conditions for fresh discussions with SIFF, which has led the opposition to the project.
The release came amid growing pressure from indigenous groups and local residents. SIFF had earlier made the release of the detained activists and withdrawal of armed forces from the area key conditions for resuming talks with the state government.
In a further effort to rebuild trust with the protesting communities, the government was also considering reinstating suspended Gaon Burahs and Gaon Buris, the traditional village heads.
The forum’s remaining demands are expected to be discussed at a proposed meeting with the state government. The talks are likely to focus on addressing the concerns of indigenous communities and finding a way forward through dialogue.
The latest development marked an attempt by the government to reopen communication with protesting groups amid continued opposition to the 11,000-MW project.
