Abstract

This paper focuses on the lived reality of the people settling in Mapithel Dam. Construction of the dam is considered as national development by many works of literatures known for producing hydro-electricity for power, controlling flood, generate water for the irrigation system and drinking water. However, frequently in literature, it is observed that development planners and, practitioners overestimate the advantages and think little of the expense and its negative consequences. The resistance of Mapithel dam has been going on for the past thirty-seven years and it’s continuing still. The people have raised the issue of dam impacting their agricultural land, livelihood, culture, and identity. The construction of Mapithel dam has also raised many questions on the development issue and rights of Tangkhul tribal community in particular. This paper focuses particularly on the resistance and displacement of the affected people living in Mapithel Dam. It also highlights how the construction of Mapithel dam has caused the livelihood activities of the people by submerging the large tract of agricultural land, forest, and river of the people living near the site.