Published Paper Details:

As South and Southeast Asian countries unify their regional energy networks to meet increasing energy demands, massive transnational schemes such as hydroelectric dams and state-to-state transmission lines have raised serious issues of environmental justice, community displacement, and absence of public engagement. This research examines the legal and institutional framework of such projects in India and the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), focusing on whether they offer transparency, sustainability, and accountability in the environmental and social senses. The study investigates important bilateral and regional agreements like the India-Nepal Power Trade Agreement, the India-Bhutan Hydropower Memoranda of Understanding, and ASEAN Power Grid. The study also engages with relevant Indian legal frameworks, in particular the Forest Rights Act of 2006 and the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986. Based on a review of a number of case studies, this paper identifies deficiancies in legal systems, for example, the lack of cross-border Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), weak participation of all the stakeholders affected by such projects, and weak grievance redressal mechanisms. This paper argues that current legislations and regulations are weak and do not deal with local and environmental concerns that cross national borders. The paper also proposes reforms like binding cross-border EIAs, environmental justice clauses in treaties, community rehabilitation and redressal and regional oversight arrangements to foster a more equitable and sustainable model of energy governance in the region.