The Arunachal Pradesh government has served notices to several government employees and village heads, known as 'gaon burahs', in Upper Siang for allegedly participating in protests against the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).
The move has intensified tensions in the region, which is already embroiled in controversy over the proposed dam.
Upper Siang Deputy Commissioner Hage Lailang issued the notices earlier this week, citing possible disciplinary actions for insubordination and misconduct under the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964.
These rules prohibit government employees from participating in strikes or publicly criticising government policies.
The notices come in response to a protest rally held in Dite Dime, Siang district, on August 31. The demonstration was organised by anti-dam groups opposing the SUMP, a large hydropower initiative spearheaded by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).
The project, intended to generate 12,500 MW of electricity, is viewed by the government and NHPC as a vital development for the region's infrastructure and economy.
"The district administration has served notices a few days ago to many government employees and gaon burahs for taking part in the protest against the project," Lailang said on Saturday.
However, Lailang did not disclose the number of notices issued, citing confidentiality.
Local opposition to the SUMP is robust, with indigenous communities arguing that the project threatens their land, environment, and way of life. They claim the dam would displace local populations and cause severe environmental degradation.
On August 30, both the Upper Siang and Siang district administrations had already instructed government officials and village heads not to engage in demonstrations or protests against government policies.
This directive was aimed at curbing dissent and ensuring compliance with government rules.
The Siang Indigenous Farmers' Forum (SIFF), which leads the anti-dam movement, has condemned the administration’s actions. SIFF President Gegong Jijong argued that government employees, who are local residents, have a legitimate right to protest against projects that threaten their rights and livelihoods.
Jijong also challenged the administration’s stance on the 'gaon burahs', asserting that they should not be bound by CCS rules and should be free to defend their community's interests.
“They (gaon burahs) can’t sacrifice their rights, livelihood for Rs 15,000 honourarium per year,” Jijong added.
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