Apex students' body urges implementation of MHA directives to safeguard indigenous electoral rights

United News of India

27-05-2025

Itanagar, May 27 (UNI) The All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) has called for the strict implementation of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directives to deport illegal Bangladeshi immigrants from the state, aiming to protect the electoral rights of the indigenous people.
Addressing a press conference here on Tuesday, AAPSU General Secretary Ritum Tali informed that a memorandum on the issue has been submitted to Chief Minister Pema Khandu. 'We have also sought an appointment with the Union Home Minister to raise the matter nationally, particularly regarding the long-standing Chakma-Hajong refugee issue in Arunachal Pradesh, and to demand a final legal resolution,' Tali said.
He expressed deep concern over the increasing number of illegal immigrants, particularly from Bangladesh, alleging that many have managed to acquire voting rights and government benefits.
Tali claimed that in many assembly constituencies, the indigenous communities are being outnumbered by outsiders, which is now influencing electoral outcomes.
'In recent times, districts such as Namsai, Lohit, and Lower Dibang Valley have witnessed a surge in non-indigenous voters. This trend directly threatens the political representation of indigenous communities and must be addressed through legislative and administrative action,' the AAPSU leader asserted.
The apex students' body has urged the state government to issue clear guidelines on the enrollment of non-locals and warned of serious consequences if corrective measures are not implemented.
In line with MHA directives, the AAPSU announced the launch of 'Operation Clean Drive', a month-long campaign to identify and report illegal immigrants. 'Peaceful dharnas will be organized across the state with support from district student unions and the general public,' Tali said.
The student body also raised concerns over the increasing population of Chakma and Hajong communities in the Diyun area, alleging that their growing economic dominance is marginalizing local populations.
'The state government must implement a structured mechanism for their deportation or area confinement. We demand a time-bound resolution to this long-pending issue,' Tali emphasized.
AAPSU further condemned China's repeated attempts to rename places in Arunachal Pradesh, describing it as a blatant infringement on India's sovereignty.
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