Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh deputy chief minister Chowna Mein on Friday said govt is open to dialogue with all stakeholders over the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).Speaking at the closing function of the silver jubilee celebrations of the All Palin, Chambang, Yangte, Gangte and Tarak-Lengdi Students’ Union in Palin on Thursday, Mein said govt was willing to engage with community organisations, student bodies and civil society groups that have raised concerns.Differences, he said, should be addressed through constructive engagement, expert consultations and informed discussions. He also pointed to the state’s hydropower and mineral resources and called for their responsible use to create growth and jobs.On Friday, the Arunachal Publishers and Broadcasters Guild condemned the move by Pasighat police to seek a search warrant against senior journalist Tongam Rina in connection with the protests. In a statement, its president Chopa Cheda said police must investigate offences according to law, but any action involving a journalist must be handled with care, transparency and respect for press freedom. It warned that journalism must not be intimidated, directly or indirectly.Separately, the Adi Bane Kebang Youth Wing and the Adi Students’ Union urged govt to release underage students and juveniles arrested in connection with the violence, wherever legally permissible. A joint delegation led by Oki Dai and Tani Tapo submitted a representation to the home minister on Thursday. They sought legal assistance and strict adherence to the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, saying the appeal was not meant to shield anyone from accountability.
