The Assam Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chatra Parishad (AJYCP) has launched a major statewide agitation against the Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project (SLHP) in Arunachal Pradesh, citing serious safety concerns for downstream communities in Assam and demanding a fair share of power from the project.
Speaking at a press conference, AJYCP President Palash Changmai strongly criticised the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) for moving ahead with trial production of the 2,000 MW project. He said the NHPC was acting hastily without addressing the long-term safety of people living along the Brahmaputra river in Assam. “The NHPC is rushing to operationalise the project by November 10 without providing any clarity about the welfare or security of affected populations,” Changmai said. He also raised concerns over the ecological impact on lower Assam and the lack of transparency from the authorities.
The AJYCP highlighted what it called a “gross injustice” in the distribution of electricity. While Arunachal Pradesh is expected to receive 1,200 MW of free power from the project, Assam will get only 25 MW, according to the organisation. Changmai accused earlier movement leaders Ranoj Pegu and Bhuvan Pegu of remaining silent despite having previously led large-scale protests against the dam. 
To press their demands, the AJYCP announced a five-phase protest plan. On October 25, effigies of the Chief Minister and NHPC officials were burnt at Gerukamukh. On October 28, letters will be submitted to the Prime Minister and President through district commissioners. November 1 will see statewide district-level sit-ins, followed by road blockades at Gerukamukh from November 7 to halt the movement of construction materials to the dam site. Residents of Dhemaji and Lakhimpur districts have been urged to participate in large numbers.
The AJYCP also criticised Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma for his silence on the issue, demanding the government ensure proper compensation, equitable power sharing, and full safety measures before allowing the project to be fully operational. “The Subansiri project cannot go ahead at the cost of Assam’s people and environment. We will not remain silent when our rights and safety are being ignored,” Changmai said.
