Controversy Surrounds Lada-Sarli Frontier Highway Project in Arunachal Pradesh
A dispute has arisen over the Lada-Sarli Frontier Highway project in Arunachal Pradesh's East Kameng district, with the East Kameng Social Welfare and Cultural Organisation (EKSWCO) raising concerns about arbitrary and selective physical reverification of land and properties for compensation.
Allegations of Discrimination and Selective Exclusion
In a representation to the chief secretary, the EKSWCO's Lada-Sarli Frontier Highway Scam Committee's issue chairman, Chopa Cheda, accused the ongoing reverification exercise of excluding a significant stretch between Chainage 0.00 km and 14.600 km (Package 1). This selective approach, according to Cheda, could be seen as discrimination, particularly towards the Sajolang (Miji) community, while focusing on Nyishi-inhabited belts.
Questions over Transparency and Credibility
Cheda also questioned the lack of justification for excluding this stretch from scrutiny, citing a government order dated 23 December, 2025. The EKSWCO's concerns over transparency and fairness were further heightened by the perceived irregularities and potential corruption that could be shielded from public scrutiny due to selective verification.
Political Interference and Public Distrust
The EKSWCO also alleged that the move could indicate political interference, fueling suspicions and deepening public distrust. Such selective verification, they warned, could exacerbate perceptions of corruption and manipulation.
Relevance to North East Region and India
The Lada-Sarli Frontier Highway project, if completed, will significantly impact the North East region by improving connectivity and fostering economic development. However, incidents such as this raise concerns about the transparency and fairness of such large-scale infrastructure projects, which are crucial for the region's growth and integration with the rest of India.
Looking Forward
The EKSWCO's allegations highlight the need for increased transparency and fairness in the implementation of infrastructure projects in Arunachal Pradesh and the North East region as a whole. It is essential that such projects are executed in a manner that fosters public trust and confidence, ensuring their long-term success and benefits for all communities involved.