Itanagar: The All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AATSU) has expressed concerns over the recent decision by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to grant Permanent Resident Certificates (PRCs) to the Moran community.
While acknowledging the move as a celebration for the Moran people, AATSU warns that it poses a significant risk to Arunachal Pradesh’s socio-cultural fabric and territorial integrity.
AATSU cautions that this decision may exacerbate long-standing disputes between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, particularly as the latter remains committed to safeguarding the rights and identity of its indigenous communities.
The organization fears that this development may lead to political instability and regional unrest, undermining the enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system.
The ILP, protected under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) of 1873, is a crucial mechanism ensuring the protection of Arunachal Pradesh’s indigenous tribal communities.
AATSU respects Assam’s decision but highlights the pressing issue of preserving indigenous rights and maintaining communal harmony in Arunachal Pradesh.
In response, AATSU has appealed to both the Assam and Arunachal Pradesh governments to relocate Moran and other non-tribal individuals residing in Lekang to Assam.
With the PRC status granted by Assam, AATSU asserts that Moran community members can no longer claim legitimate residency in Arunachal Pradesh.
The organization hopes that the Assam government will acknowledge its concerns and take necessary steps to prevent disruptions to peace and indigenous rights.
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