ES Reporter 

ITANAGAR, Dec 2: Advocate Ibo Mili, a member of North East Human Rights, a prominent human rights activist, has strongly condemned Chief Minister Pema Khandu's recent statement claiming unanimous support from representatives of the Siang region for the construction of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project.
Speaking to reporters at the Press Club on Monday, Mili questioned the CM's assertion that Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Minister Ojing Tasing, Hydropower Advisor Ninong Ering, Chief Minister's Advisor Alo Libang, and MLA Onit Panyang had collectively endorsed the project. "How can a minister or MLA decide the future of an entire region, especially when it concerns the lives and livelihoods of those directly affected?" Mili questioned.
He further clarified that their opposition is not against the development of the state but emphasized the need to consider their decision to construct mega Hydro Power Projects.There are many projects already commissioned in the state, but no body knows about Free electricity and other assurances given by both the Government and power developers.  "The compensation promised by power developers often falls short of the norms. For instance, many affected families from the Dibang Hydro Project are still awaiting the full compensation they were assured. While funds may be allocated for rehabilitation, the land acquired for such projects can never be restored," he added.
Mili also highlighted his recent participation as a distinguished speaker at the 13th Annual United Nations Forum on Business and Human Rights (UNBHR) held in Geneva, Switzerland, from November 25 to 27 last. He addressed the ongoing struggles of Indigenous communities to safeguard their ancestral lands amid growing pressures from state governments and local representatives who, he alleged, often act as advocates for dam developers.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, responding to media queries, reiterated that the public is welcoming the Siang Multipurpose Project. "There is a misconception that this is just a hydropower project or a dam. It is a multipurpose initiative that aims to benefit the region strategically and environmentally," Khandu explained.
He further stated that the state has multiple hydropower projects in the pipeline, with a combined capacity of 13,500 megawatts. CM also claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured a 26% equity share for the state, along with 12% free power, which will significantly boost Arunachal Pradesh's revenue. "We must be grateful for such a visionary approach that ensures economic growth and benefits for the state," Khandu remarked.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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