More than 200 citizens and people’s organizations from across India wrote to the government on October 6, 2026, demanding action against police violence directed at protesters of the Ken-Betwa project. The letter was sent to multiple authorities including the Prime Minister’s office, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and state governments.
The Ken-Betwa project, a major irrigation initiative, has been the subject of widespread protests for over a month. Activists claim the project has caused significant environmental and social disruption, leading to displacement of local communities. The protests, known as the ‘Chita Andolan,’ have seen repeated clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement.
This is not the first time the project has sparked unrest. Earlier in 2026, local communities raised concerns over the project’s impact on their livelihoods and ecosystems. Despite these warnings, the project continued, leading to heightened tensions. The recent escalation in police action has drawn national attention, with critics accusing authorities of using excessive force.
The letter from the citizens highlights the need for a transparent and inclusive dialogue with affected communities. It calls for an independent inquiry into the incidents of police violence and a reassessment of the project’s implementation. The response from the government remains pending.
