Assam party slams Modi over Bhutan power project

Assam's regional party Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) Tuesday slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the launch of a hydro power project in Bhutan, saying it will endanger the lives and property of people in certain districts of Assam.

Modi, during his trip to Bhutan, laid the foundation stone of the 600 MW Kholongchu hydro-electric project, a joint venture between India and Bhutan.

AGP general secretary Durgadas Bodo said Modi had spoken against big dams during his election campaign in Assam.

"However, in less than a month after coming to power, the prime minister laid the foundation stone of such a huge power project in Bhutan that will endanger the lives of people in certain districts of Assam," Bodo said.

He said the dam of the 60 MW Kurichu hydel project in Bhutan had caused devastating floods in five districts of Assam in 2004 and 2007.

"One can imagine what kind of devastation will be caused in Assam after the 600 MW project happens," he said.

He said the move "shows that the BJP-led government at the centre and the former Congress-led government does not have much difference in their attitude towards Assam and the northeast," he added.

The All Assam Students' Union (AASU) has also demanded a white paper from the union government on the Bhutanese hydel power project.