The All Nyishi Students’ Union has urged the government to publish a White Paper detailing land compensation disbursed under the Frontier Highway Project for better accountability.
Itanagar, India Jul 11, 2026 ALN: The All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU) has urged the Government of (GoAP) to publish a comprehensive White Paper on land compensation disbursed under the Frontier Highway (AFH) Project in Kurung Kumey, Kra Daadi, and East Kameng districts. This request aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the implementation of this strategically important infrastructure project.
The AFH Project is a significant infrastructure initiative aimed at improving connectivity in the northeastern region of India. It is part of a broader effort to enhance transportation networks, which are crucial for economic development, accessibility, and integration of remote areas into the national mainstream. However, such projects often involve complex land acquisition processes that can lead to disputes, especially when compensation is not handled transparently. The ANSU's call for a White Paper reflects concerns that have been prevalent in many infrastructure projects across the country, where lack of transparency can lead to mistrust among local populations and stakeholders.
In a representation to the Land Management Commissioner on Thursday, ANSU requested the publication of the White Paper within 15 days. The union emphasized that the document should contain detailed information regarding the AFH compensation that has been sanctioned and disbursed. This request is particularly pertinent given the historical context of land acquisition in , where indigenous communities have often faced challenges in securing fair compensation for their land.
The AFH Project involves substantial public expenditure and directly impacts the rights and interests of thousands of landowners and beneficiaries. ANSU argued that transparency, fairness, and accountability must be ensured throughout the disbursement process. The organization’s demands are not merely administrative but reflect a broader call for justice and equitable treatment of local communities whose lives and livelihoods are affected by such large-scale projects.
Referring to a writ petition currently pending before the Itanagar bench of the Gauhati High Court concerning land compensation for the Kurung Kumey stretch, ANSU alleged that compensation had been disbursed despite court directions issued on April 10, which mandated physical verification, videography, photography, and other verification procedures to establish the existence and extent of land, structures, and plantations before releasing compensation. This allegation raises serious questions about compliance with judicial directives and the integrity of the compensation process.
Among the demands made by ANSU are:
These specific requests highlight the need for a systematic and rigorous approach to documenting the compensation process. By demanding detailed records, ANSU is advocating for a framework that not only ensures accountability but also empowers affected communities with the information necessary to understand and challenge any discrepancies in the compensation process.
Additionally, ANSU called for the disclosure of the total compensation disbursed, the source of funding, and corrective measures initiated to recover excess payments and ensure lawful compensation to genuine beneficiaries. The publication of the White Paper, according to ANSU, would enhance public confidence, facilitate informed public scrutiny, and reaffirm the government’s commitment to transparent governance. Transparency in compensation disbursement is vital not just for the immediate stakeholders, but also for fostering a culture of trust and cooperation between the government and the communities it serves.
In a separate representation addressed to the state Land Management, Urban Affairs, and Housing Minister, ANSU requested an official meeting involving the district administration, land management department, local MLA, and representatives of the union. This meeting aims to discuss issues related to the proposed Kamla Hydroelectric Project. Hydroelectric projects, like the Kamla, are often seen as double-edged swords that promise development but can also lead to significant disruptions for local communities.
Such a meeting is deemed necessary to obtain first-hand information on land acquisition, compensation, rehabilitation, and related matters to safeguard the interests of affected people. Early consultations among stakeholders are expected to help avoid disputes similar to those witnessed during land compensation for the Lada-Sarli stretch of the AFH in East Kameng district and facilitate the smooth implementation of the Kamla Hydroelectric Project, ANSU added. The Lada-Sarli stretch has been a contentious issue, with various complaints regarding insufficient compensation and lack of clarity in the land acquisition process. Learning from past experiences is crucial in ensuring that future projects do not repeat the same mistakes.
The implications of ANSU's demands extend beyond the immediate concerns of compensation and land acquisition. They touch upon broader themes of governance, community engagement, and the role of civil society in holding governmental authorities accountable. As infrastructure projects continue to be a focal point of development in India, the manner in which they are executed, particularly in sensitive regions like , will have lasting effects on the relationship between the state and its citizens.
In conclusion, the call for a White Paper on AFH compensation is a significant step towards ensuring that the voices of local communities are heard and considered in the planning and execution of large-scale infrastructure projects. It underscores the necessity for transparency and accountability in governance, particularly in contexts where indigenous rights and local livelihoods are at stake. The outcome of this initiative could set a precedent for future projects in the region, influencing how the government interacts with its citizens and manages the complexities of development in a diverse and often challenging landscape.
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