U.S.-based academics call for Assam land rights activist Pranab Doley’s release
A group of United States-based academics has issued a call for the immediate release of Pranab Doley, a prominent land rights activist from Assam. Doley was arrested following his participation in protests against government-led construction projects near the Kaziranga National Park.
Pranab Doley was initially detained in Guwahati on July 12 before being formally arrested in the Golaghat district early the next morning. The activist faces charges related to a 'violent protest' directed at the State government's development plans in the region.
The controversy centers on the proposed construction of a luxury hotel and a dedicated 'tea tribes' museum. These projects are slated for land situated near the borders of the Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its significant biodiversity.
Local communities and activists have voiced concerns regarding the environmental impact and the displacement of indigenous populations in the area. The collective of U.S. academics argues that the arrest undermines democratic dissent and grassroots activism in India. Source: The Hindu.
