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Protests should have direction

The Sunday Times, Sri Lanka - 27 December 2000

Protests should have direction

Medha Patkar was desperate for a cup of tea. She was tired out from the three days of sittings on the Dam Commission. "And reading reports until dawn," said this unpretentious Indian lady with a wan smile.

The Dam Commision is a wonderful thing, Medha opined. "It is completely unbiased and gives a fair hearing to both sides of the story- the affected people and the bureaucrats and funding agencies."

Daughter of a freedom fighter and trade unionist, Medha became famous after she led protests against the Narmada River damming project. Her organisation was responsible for the stoppage of four major dams. Another decision is pending in court.

Having listened to representations from both sides on the Mahaweli dams issue, Medha comments about the similarity in the problems faced by people in both countries. "People learn as they go along, even government officials. But the tragedy is in losing so much of the indigenous wealth and traditional knowledge when the old system is disrupted," she said, emphasising she is now voicing her personal opinion and not as a Commissioner.

She said any protest campaign, if they are to be successful should look at fair alternatives and constructive suggestions. Without such alternatives being offered, protests become directionless.

She said that one should not become categorised as anti-development. "All big projects have widespread implications. When a dam is built the displaced community has to be treated well and rehabilitated." (TD)

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