Dr Yumri Taipodia

The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) the apex Christian organisation of Arunachal Pradesh has expressed deep concern over the prevailing tensions surrounding the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) and has offered its good offices to facilitate preliminary peace talks between the Government of Arunachal Pradesh and the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum (SIFF).

In an appeal addressed to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, ACF has urged the state government to initiate meaningful dialogue with SIFF and other concerned stakeholders to address apprehensions, reduce misunderstandings and prevent any further escalation of tensions in the Siang region.

The appeal reflects ACF’s commitment to peace, reconciliation, unity and the welfare of the people of Arunachal Pradesh. As an ecumenical Christian organization, ACF has expressed its willingness to contribute constructively to peaceful engagement in the larger public interest.

The SUMP issue involves significant considerations concerning development, indigenous rights, the livelihoods of farming communities and the future of the people in the Siang region. These concerns require a sensitive, transparent and consultative approach that respects the dignity of affected communities and provides them with a meaningful opportunity to express their views.

Dialogue as a Democratic and Constitutional Approach

In a democratic society, public concerns involving development projects and indigenous communities should be addressed through lawful, peaceful and consultative mechanisms. Meaningful dialogue can help clarify differences, build public confidence and reduce the risk of confrontation.

ACF has therefore appealed to the state government to engage constructively with SIFF and other stakeholders. Such engagement should be guided by mutual respect, transparency, patience and a genuine willingness to listen to the concerns of all parties.

The objective is not to prejudge the merits of the SUMP project but to create an atmosphere in which differing perspectives can be discussed peacefully and responsibly.

ACF Offers Its Good Offices for Mediation

A significant aspect of the appeal is ACF’s formal offer to facilitate preliminary peace talks between the state government and SIFF, subject to the willingness and consent of both parties.

The organization has clarified that its proposed role would remain neutral and limited to facilitating communication, encouraging mutual understanding, building confidence and helping establish a peaceful platform for dialogue. It does not seek to advocate either for or against the project.

Any substantive decision concerning the project would remain within the jurisdiction of the competent authorities and the appropriate legal and democratic processes, with due consideration for the concerns of affected communities and other stakeholders.

ACF has also requested the Chief Minister to nominate an appropriate government representative to coordinate with the Forum and SIFF in exploring a mutually acceptable framework for dialogue. If the proposal receives favourable consideration, ACF is prepared to consult both sides and work towards arranging an initial meeting at a mutually convenient time and venue.

Peace Must Precede Progress

The appeal comes with an important message: development and social harmony should not be treated as mutually exclusive objectives. Sustainable progress requires public confidence, responsible engagement and respect for the legitimate concerns of affected people.

For the Adi community and other residents of the Siang region, the issues surrounding SUMP deserve careful consideration, constructive communication and a peaceful process that protects social relationships. An inclusive dialogue may help identify areas of disagreement, clarify concerns and explore possible ways forward without resorting to confrontation.

The government, community representatives and civil society organizations each have a constructive role to play in promoting peace. ACF’s offer provides an opportunity to explore a neutral platform for communication, provided both parties agree to participate in good faith.

Ultimately, the success of such an initiative would depend on the willingness of all concerned parties to listen, respect differing views and pursue peaceful engagement.

The appeal concludes with confidence in the leadership of the state government and the possibility of reconciliation through dialogue. By encouraging mutual understanding and cooperation, the concerned parties can help safeguard unity, dignity and harmony in Arunachal Pradesh.

The central message is clear: peace must precede progress, dialogue must replace confrontation, and mutual understanding must guide the resolution of public concerns. A peaceful and inclusive approach to the SUMP issue would serve the broader interests of the people and the future of the Siang region.

Dr Yumri Taipodia, Columnist