Guwahati, Sept. 18 -- Human Rights of Arunachal (HRA) on Thursday backed local communities opposing the proposed 11,000MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) and called on the state and Central governments to immediately stop pre-feasibility surveys and drilling in Siang and Upper Siang districts.

HRA chairperson Kipa Kaha referred to recent protests in Uggeng and nearby areas, saying indigenous communities remained concerned about the possible environmental and social effects of the project.

Describing the Siang River as vital to Arunachal Pradesh, Kaha said it supports farming, biodiversity, cultural heritage and indigenous identity. He said projects involving ancestral territories should be carried out with respect for human righ...