Arunachal journalist bodies raise alarm over Siang report restrictions
Two media bodies in Arunachal Pradesh on Monday, October 5, raised concerns over alleged restrictions on social media content related to the Upper Siang Hydropower Project, saying journalists in the state have reported that some videos and other material are inaccessible in India or that access to their accounts has been restricted.
The Arunachal Press Club (APC) and the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ), in a joint statement, sought the immediate restoration of legitimate journalistic content restricted solely in connection with reporting on the project.
The organisations also demanded a clear explanation from authorities for any restrictions imposed on journalists or news organisations.
"Journalism cannot be treated as an inconvenience merely because reports from the ground are uncomfortable, critical or contrary to an official narrative," the two bodies said in the statement.
The media organisations said the Upper Siang project was of significant public importance as it involved issues relating to development, the environment, displacement, indigenous rights, national interest and the future of communities along the Siang.
They said restrictions on journalistic reports could deny citizens information needed for informed public debate, particularly at a time when the project has triggered protests and discussions between the government and affected communities.
The APC and APUWJ also sought disclosure of the legal basis, authority and specific grounds if any government agency had directed social media platforms to block or restrict news reports related to the project.
"The government must clarify whether directions have been issued to social media platforms to restrict SUMP-related reports, videos, accounts or other journalistic content," the organisations said.
The two bodies reiterated their demand for the restoration of legitimate journalistic material and sought explanations for restrictions imposed on individual journalists or news organisations.
Protests against the proposed hydropower project have been taking place in the Siang region, with demonstrators demanding an immediate halt to the ongoing Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) activities and survey work for the project proposed on the Siang River.
Protesters have also sought the withdrawal of security forces deployed in areas likely to be affected by the proposed project.
The government, however, has maintained that the 11,000 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project would contribute to economic and social development, create employment and self-employment opportunities for young people, and strengthen water and energy security for Arunachal Pradesh and the country.
Inputs: PTI