Pasighat, Oct 20: The East Siang district administration in Arunachal Pradesh has denied permission for a proposed rally against the 11,000 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), citing public safety concerns and ongoing Dussehra celebrations.
In a circular issued Monday, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Pasighat, warned that strict legal action would be taken against organisers and participants involved in any unauthorised public rally or gathering.
The circular was issued after an unsigned letter attributed to the organising committee of “Save Siang Save Indigenous Right, Pasighat” circulated on social media.
The letter called for a rally on Tuesday, with participants scheduled to march from Daying Ering School to Gandhi Chowk in Pasighat to oppose the proposed hydropower project.
Clarifying its position, the administration said no permission had been granted for the rally. It stressed that all public rallies and events require prior written approval to ensure coordination with law enforcement agencies and maintain public order.
“No permission has been granted for the rally by the District Administration, as circulated in the social media. Hence, any unauthorized event/rally will invite strict legal action against the organizers and other persons found involved, in accordance with the applicable laws,” the circular stated.
The administration noted that several puja committees and religious organisations had already secured permission for Dussehra celebrations scheduled through October 21.
It said an unauthorised mass gathering during the festive period could disrupt celebrations and affect public safety.
The circular was forwarded to the Superintendent of Police, local administrative officers, the Bogum Bokang and the Pasighat Market Association for enforcement and wider dissemination.
The decision comes amid growing opposition in the Siang valley to pre-feasibility survey activities for the proposed 11,000 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project.
Indigenous Adi groups and youth organisations campaigning under the banner of “Save Siang, Save Indigenous Rights” have raised concerns over potential village submergence, displacement and environmental damage associated with the project.
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