Women protesters from Ngorlung, Ralung and Niglok villages have resumed their movement against the silicon factory operated by M/s Aether Alloys LLP at the Niglok Industrial Growth Centre in East Siang district.

The protesters have started a material blockade against the factory, affecting the movement of materials to and from the industrial unit.

The villagers said officials and the factory CEO had made several assurances during a consultative meeting on 28 April, but alleged that these promises have not been implemented. Earlier, in February, villagers had launched an indefinite material blockade and blocked the Mirem-Mikong-Jonai PWD road at Ngorlung.

The villagers are demanding that the factory be shifted from its present location, alleging serious air and water pollution and associated health- and crop-related problems. The authorities and the factory had reportedly agreed to have experts monitor pollutant emissions and the air pollution index for six months.

The protesters had previously lifted the blockade after placing a seven-point demand, but have now resumed it, alleging that the authorities and factory management failed to fulfil their commitments. The location of the factory near settlements is itself questionable, and the government has to find a way to ensure that the people's grievances are addressed, and that the assurances given are fulfilled.