The Industrial Growth Centre (IGC) Pollution Affected People’s Forum organized a 12-hour bandh in the Ruksin circle of East Siang district on August 28, protesting the state government’s failure to relocate a hazardous silicon factory. From 5 AM to 5 PM, protesters from seven villages, including women, blocked National Highway 515 at the Ruksin entry gate, leading to a halt in traffic for passenger buses, goods trucks, oil tankers, and private vehicles.
Essential services like security forces, ambulance services, and food supply were exempted from the bandh. Local shops and commercial establishments remained closed, and government offices saw reduced attendance. Fortunately, the protest passed peacefully without any reported incidents.
The protesters claim that the Aether Alloys LLP silicon factory at the IGC is responsible for significant air and water pollution in nearby villages, posing serious health risks to residents. In April, forum leaders appealed to the East Siang district administration and the Industry Department for the factory’s relocation to a more suitable non-residential area. They subsequently held protest rallies in Niglok and at the Ruksin headquarters to amplify their demands.
The protesting group has alleged that the factory violates the Factories Act of 1948 and urged authorities to take action against the industrial unit. They also warned of more intense protests if their demands remain unaddressed. Following a report published in late June, the National Green Tribunal took notice of the pollution issue and held a hearing in mid-July.
Original Source: https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2025/08/29/forum-enforces-ruksin-bandh-demanding-relocation-of-silicon-factory/
Category: State News
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-08-29 01:13:00
