ITANAGAR, Aug 30: The All Nyishi Students Union (ANSU) has welcomed the state government’s proposed move to relocate the Chakma and Hajong refugees from Arunachal and the statements given by Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Union law minister Kiren Rijiju in this regard.
ANSU general secretary Gora Rikam in a statement on Monday said the vexed Chakma & Hajong refugee issue has been a lengthy and unresolved concern for the state and for which several student leaders and others have sacrificed their lives.
“As human beings, we respect the Chakmas and Hajongs and we have even offered them our lands to live and other facilities since the last six decades. But it is time now for them to leave our state,” Rikam said.
The ANSU leader said instead of acknowledging the favor given to them by the people of Arunachal, they have been capturing lands and encroaching forests, so the time has come for them to pack their bags.
“The Chakma and Hajong refugees are temporary settlers in Arunachal and the citizens here will never accept them as indigenous people. Moreover, they should accept this golden opportunity offered by the Central government and stop playing the victim card in the state,” he said.
Rikam also condemned the recent letter from United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) addressed to the chief minister Pema Khandu wherein he had sought permanent residence certificates (PRCs) to the Assamese people residing in Arunachal since long.
“We are not sure about the authenticity of the letter, but the ULFA-I should stay away from interfering in the internal matters of Arunachal Pradesh and refrain from issuing such statements,” he said.
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