Guwahati: A fresh debate has ignited in the State following remarks made by Union minister Kiren Rijiju, suggesting the potential relocation of Chakma and Hajong refugees from Arunachal Pradesh to Assam under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019.
The development has prompted sharp reactions from various quarters, particularly within political circles of the State. Rijiju, in a recent press conference, asserted that discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had taken place regarding the relocation, with the process of identifying land underway.
However, Sarma has denied any such discussions, stating, “Where is the land to relocate them in Assam? Neither anyone from the Chakma or Hajong refugees nor Rijiju had any discussion with me. I will speak to Rijiju once the elections are over,” during a political rally.
Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Bhupen Borah condemned the development, labeling Rijiju’s comments as “detrimental to the cause of the State,” alleging a conspiracy against Assam.
Raijor Dal president and MLA Akhil Gogoi demanded clarification from Sarma regarding any instructions received from the Government of India or Amit Shah. Gogoi emphasized, “And if Rijiju is lying, Sarma should force him to apologize publicly.”
All Assam Students’ Union chief advisor Samujjal Bhattacharya reiterated their opposition to the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, stating, “We are continuing with our democratic fight as well as legal fight.”
Raijor Dal leader Bhasco De Saikia expressed concern over the potential burden on Assam if such relocation were to occur, stating, “Assam will have to bear the burden of refugees from other states as well.”
The Assam Jatiya Parishad also voiced opposition to the resettlement of Chakma and Hajong refugees in Assam, warning of staunch resistance.
AJP president Lurinjyoti Gogoi accused the BJP government of conspiring against Assam’s indigenous communities, while general secretary Jagadish Bhuyan raised concerns about the lack of transparency in implementing the Citizenship (Amendment) Act in Assam.
CPI(M) Assam State committee secretary Suprakash Talukdar criticized Rijiju’s remarks, expressing apprehension about the implications for Assam.
Chakmas and Hajongs, who migrated to India between 1964 and 1966 to escape religious persecution in then East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), are currently settled in Arunachal Pradesh. More than 60,000 members of these communities reside in Arunachal Pradesh since the 1960s.
On the topic of relocation, CDFI founder Suhas Chakma emphasized the citizenship status of Chakmas and Hajongs, stating, “No government has the authority or power to relocate a citizen from one place to another place against their will.”
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s previous statements regarding the issue have been met with opposition from Chakma-Hajong CBOs, who assert their preference to remain in Arunachal Pradesh.
The JAC of Chakma-Hajong CBOs reiterated that Chakmas and Hajongs were recognized as de facto citizens of India after being settled in Arunachal Pradesh.
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