Outrage as Anti-Dam Activist Joram Anu Detained at Delhi Airport En Route to Ireland

In a dramatic turn of events that has sent ripples across environmental and human rights circles, prominent Arunachal anti-dam activist Joram Anu was detained at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on Friday. Anu was on the verge of boarding a flight to Ireland, where he was slated to attend a crucial international conference, when authorities intervened, preventing his departure and casting a spotlight once again on the challenges faced by dissenters in India.

The detention stemmed from a Look-out Circular (LOC) issued by the Arunachal Pradesh police.

Anu faces a litany of serious charges, including rioting, unlawful assembly, assault on a public servant, and even attempt to murder. These accusations are directly linked to a fervent protest held on August 29 against the colossal 2,880 MW Dibang multi-purpose project. While the protest witnessed instances of violence, including the torching of project vehicles, Anu has vehemently denied any direct involvement in such destructive acts.

He asserts his presence at the protest site was solely in his capacity as a resource person, offering guidance and support to the community.

This isn't the first legal challenge for Anu. An arrest warrant had previously been issued by the Arunachal Pradesh police, prompting him to seek anticipatory bail.

However, his plea was unfortunately rejected by a special court, leaving him in a precarious legal position. Reports indicate that he was actively preparing to approach the High Court for relief, a journey now interrupted by his airport detention.

The activist’s detention has ignited a fierce debate, drawing sharp criticism from various human rights organizations and fellow activists.

Many view the incident as a calculated attempt to muzzle critical voices and stifle legitimate environmental advocacy. Anu himself echoed this sentiment, describing his detention as a clear strategy to silence dissent against large-scale development projects that threaten indigenous lands and livelihoods.

The incident underscores the escalating tensions between state-backed infrastructure projects and grassroots movements fighting for ecological preservation and community rights.

As Joram Anu remains in custody, the future of his legal battle and his ability to participate in international forums hangs in the balance.

His case has become a poignant symbol of the wider struggle faced by environmental activists globally, highlighting the personal risks involved in standing up for environmental justice and indigenous rights in the face of powerful interests.