Dams and Paradigms
- Hueiyen Lanpao Editorial :: April 03, 2015 -
In the last few decades, there seems to be a tendency by the respective State Governments in the Northeast to oversimplify developmental process without truly identifying the needs of the people.
The adoption of implementation process without truly grasping the paradigms of development has impacted on certain response which are both social and political.
The methods adopted by the State Governments under the benevolent Centre have led to reprisals which have been either suppressed or ignored.
The overall apathy to the phenomenon has been further compounded by the existing political uncertainty and social turmoil.
Hence, the easiest way out for any ruling dispensation has been the application of temporary measures to solve issues that had been perceived as temporary.
This is one of the many reasons why the State Governments in the Northeast find it easy to opt for short conflict management tactics while undermining consensus building mechanism.
Take for instance, the case of Hydro Electric Projects in the Northeast region. It has been adequately argued that these projects would eventually affect communities inhabiting the identified zones demarcated.
Beyond the predictable response on relief, rehabilitation and resettlement schemes, the State Governments have rarely shown its acumen on addressing the issue of their rights and the blatant manner in which the grievances of the people have been ignored.
It is under such circumstances, NGOs in Manipur have been urging both the Centre and the State Governments to stop the blocking of water in the Mapithel Dam.
They are demanding setting up of an independent expert team comprising of local members to assess the impact of the proposed dam besides initiating a dialogue with the people in the upstream and downstream areas.
The NGOs have also alleged that many dam projects constructed in the region have failed to provide power and water to the people as promised.
They have alleged that any opposition to the construction of dams has been pursued with threats and arbitrary detention of local community members.
Against this kind of reaction, it will immensely benefit the government if the issue is patiently considered not only from the aspects of identifying real issues but also truly understanding what constitute the paradigms of development for the people.
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