DIPHU: The Autonomous State Demand Committee (ASDC) has voiced concerns regarding the proposed relocation of Chakma-Hajong refugees from Arunachal Pradesh to Assam.
The ASDC cited potential demographic shifts in Karbi Anglong district of Assam if the Chakma-Hajong refugees in Arunachal Pradesh are relocated to Assam, as proposed.
Jotson Bey, general secretary of the ASDC and candidate for the Diphu Lok Sabha constituency, stated that union minister Kiren Rijiju disclosed discussions with Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma about relocating the Chakma-Hajong refugees from Arunachal Pradesh to Assam.
“Before the parliamentary election, ASDC had discussions with the Assam CM regarding the deportation of illegal settlers,” said Jotson Bey.
He added: “We firmly believe that the Sixth Schedule district of Karbi Anglong, reserved for scheduled tribes, should not accommodate new settlers from outside, and existing illegal settlers should be removed.”
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Bey expressed concerns over potential ramifications if five lakh Chakma-Hajong refugees were sheltered in Assam.
ASDC, along with KSA and Karbi Nimso Chingthur Asong (KNCA), has raised objection to proposed relocation of Chakma-Hajong refugees from Arunachal Pradesh to Assam, Bey stated.
Regarding the demographic impact on Karbi Anglong, Bey highlighted the likelihood of refugees relocating to the area if allowed to settle in Assam.
Addressing the existing Chakma population in the Borlangpher area of Karbi Anglong district of Assam, Bey stated that those arriving in the district after 1951 are not considered indigenous settlers and should be deported.