ITANAGAR, OCT 19:
Human Rights of Arunachal (HRA), led by its chairman Dr Kipa Kaha, has called for an impartial fact-finding inquiry into a reported meeting between former Adi Baane Kebang (United) [ABK (U)] president Thomas Borang and Chief Minister Pema Khandu, allegedly attended by a businessman, during Borang’s tenure as the organisation’s president.
In a statement issued on Sunday, HRA questioned whether the meeting had taken place with the knowledge and approval of ABK (U)’s executive members. It said that if the meeting concerned the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), its purpose, circumstances and any decisions or commitments arising from it should be transparently explained to the Adi community and the people of Arunachal Pradesh.
HRA clarified that it had no objection to Borang meeting the Chief Minister in his personal capacity after leaving the organisational post, but maintained that meetings undertaken in an official capacity should follow institutional procedures and be subject to consultation and accountability.
The organisation also referred to Borang’s reported resignation on health grounds, stating that it did not seek to question his personal health circumstances but believed that concerns over decisions taken during his tenure should be addressed transparently.
HRA appealed to the ABK (U) vice-president, general secretary and executive members to constitute an impartial fact-finding committee to examine the reported meeting, including its purpose, participants, authorisation and whether any SUMP-related commitments were discussed or made. It also sought clarification, where relevant, on the role and responsibilities of the project’s High-Power Committee, chaired by Minister Ojin Tasing.
Separately, HRA urged competent law-enforcement authorities to examine available evidence and determine whether any cognisable offence had been committed. It called for registration of a first information report (FIR) if sufficient legal grounds existed, stressing that its demand for an investigation should not be construed as a declaration of anyone’s guilt.
Expressing concern over apprehensions among sections of the Adi community, particularly residents of Siang and Upper Siang districts, HRA said issues relating to ancestral land, livelihoods, cultural heritage, the environment and future generations required meaningful consultation and transparent disclosure of project-related information.
The organisation called upon Lok Sabha MP Tapir Gao and MLAs Alo Libang, Onit Panyang, Oken Tayeng and Tapi Darang to publicly clarify their positions on SUMP. It also requested the elected representatives to disclose relevant written communications, resolutions, agreements or official records concerning the project, subject to applicable law and legitimate confidentiality requirements.
HRA said it did not endorse unsubstantiated allegations that elected representatives had compromised the interests of their constituents, but maintained that public representatives should remain accountable to the people they serve.
The organisation also appreciated senior Adi community member Oyem Dai for his social media statement on the issue, describing constructive public dialogue and the exchange of views as essential to democratic discussion.
Appealing for unity, HRA said differences over SUMP or the conduct of individuals should not undermine the dignity of the Adi community or create divisions among communities in Arunachal Pradesh. It urged community organisations, public representatives, civil society groups and citizens to uphold peace, mutual respect and constitutional values.
HRA reiterated its call for an impartial fact-finding process, an evidence-based investigation wherever warranted, public accountability and meaningful consultation with communities potentially affected by the proposed project.
