NAHARLAGUN, OCT 26:
Human Rights of Arunachal (HRA) has urged the state government to reconsider the proposed 1,605-MW Menga hydropower project in Upper Subansiri district and explore smaller hydropower alternatives, citing concerns raised by local communities and students’ organisations.
In a statement issued on Monday, HRA called on Chief Minister Pema Khandu to initiate fresh consultations with affected stakeholders before taking further decisions on the project, also referred to as the Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project (SUHP) and reportedly being developed by NHPC Limited on the Subansiri River.
The organisation recommended examining projects of 500 MW, 300 MW and 200 MW capacities, subject to independent technical, environmental, social and economic assessments. It said any alternative should take into account river ecosystems, local livelihoods, land rights and the long-term interests of indigenous communities.
HRA also referred to a reported 12-hour bandh called by the All-Tagin Students Union (ATSU), along with other students’ organisations and community groups, in Upper Subansiri district on Monday. The bandh was reportedly linked to concerns over the proposed project and an alleged attempt to detain the ATSU president.
Calling for an inclusive round-table meeting, HRA urged the chief minister to bring together elected representatives, panchayat leaders, Gaon Burahs, students’ organisations, Tagin community representatives, land-affected families, civil society groups and relevant government departments to discuss the concerns.
The organisation also called for a review of existing memoranda of agreement and understanding for hydropower projects to strengthen provisions for local employment and community benefits.
Among its proposals, HRA sought 40 per cent reservation for eligible local candidates in Grade B, C and D posts, subject to applicable law and a clearly defined recruitment policy. It also proposed employment opportunities for at least one eligible member of each land-affected family, wherever legally and operationally feasible, along with priority for local residents in skill development, training and contractual work.
HRA further sought transparent disclosure of commitments relating to rehabilitation, compensation, environmental safeguards and community development.
The organisation said public concerns should be addressed through dialogue and democratic consultation, urging the government to assess alternatives and review project commitments before proceeding further.
