A student activist was injured during a protest against the inclusion of Chakmas who arrived in Arunachal Pradesh after 2006 in voter rolls, leading to the deployment of security personnel. Student groups allege bogus names are being included, threatening indigenous communities.
A student activist, Khoda Lazer, a member of the All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU), was injured during clashes between Chakma organisations and student groups in Bordumsa town of Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang district. The incident took place on Friday, following a hearing on claims and objections at a polling station the previous day, which was disrupted by AAPSU members. This protest was against the inclusion of Chakmas who arrived in the state after 2006 in the special intensive revision of voter rolls. According to India Today NE, stones were thrown during the clashes and Lazer was taken to a hospital. Subsequently, security personnel were deployed in Bordumsa and adjoining areas to maintain law and order.
The AAPSU has alleged that bogus names are being included in the electoral rolls, which would threaten the identity and interests of Arunachal Pradesh's indigenous communities. Student groups have been demanding that Chakmas who arrived after 2006 not be included in the voter rolls.
On a separate note, the Chakma Development Foundation of India (CDFI) has approached the National Human Rights Commission, seeking protection for Chakma and Hajong voters. The CDFI stated there are 'serious threats' to the life and liberty of Chakmas and Hajongs during upcoming hearings. The CDFI has requested directions from the NHRC, Ministry of Home Affairs, State of Arunachal Pradesh, and the Election Commission of India to ensure the right to life and personal liberty of Chakmas and Hajongs during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision.
Source:
Scroll.in
