Development for the people
- Hueiyen Lanpao Editorial :: September 07 2015 -
Expressing concern over the blocking of Thoubal River and the inconvenience and harassment meted out to both upstream and downstream villagers, some NGOs have resolved to plead with the authorities on releasing waters of Mapithel Dam and to let the Thoubal River flow free.
They have asked the authorities to consider the plight of the downstream affected communities and to ensure their safety, rehabilitation and resettlement.
On the formulation of policies that will lead to “damming up” of all Rivers of Manipur under the Manipur Hydro Power Policy 2012, these NGOs also asked the authorities to review all failed and underperforming dams in Manipur - such as the Khoupum Dam, Khuga Dam and Singda Dam and others which are not in compliance with indigenous peoples’ rights and recommendations of the World Commission on, Dams, 2000.
This brings one to reflect on the adoption of implementation process without truly grasping the paradigms of development albeit critical response which are both social and political.
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 methods adopted by the State Governments under “generous” and watchful eyes of the 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.
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.
Under such circumstances, 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 the paradigms of development for the people.
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