Opposition expresses concerns over potential Chakma relocation to Assam, CM Sarma clarifies

Opposition parties, including Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) and Congress leaders, have called upon Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to provide clarity on potential plans to relocate the Chakma community from Arunachal Pradesh to Assam. Recent remarks by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju have indicated that the Chakma community is exploring the possibility of seeking citizenship in Assam under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

In response to these concerns, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has affirmed that the central government has not held any discussions regarding the resettlement of Chakma and Hajong refugees in Assam. Rijiju, who represents Arunachal Pradesh in the Lok Sabha, has proposed relocating these refugees to Assam before they become eligible for Indian citizenship under the CAA.

Sarma emphasized, "No Chakma or Hajong representatives have approached me, nor has the government of India raised this matter for discussion. I have discussed granting permanent resident certificates to certain Assam communities residing in Arunachal Pradesh." Firmly asserting his position, Sarma stated, "Rijiju is not the Chief Minister of Assam; I hold that position."


Rijiju has been quoted as saying, "They are residing in Arunachal Pradesh as guests and are not entitled to receive permanent resident certificates or citizenship in our state. The CAA does not apply to Arunachal Pradesh." He further mentioned ongoing discussions with Chief Minister Sarma regarding the potential resettlement of Chakmas in Assam, acknowledging the challenges posed by local opposition to this proposal.

AJP leader Lurinjyoti Gogoi expressed concerns about the implications of the CAA on indigenous rights, emphasizing the ongoing resistance in Assam against this legislation. Meanwhile, Assam Pradesh Congress Committee President Bhupen Borah accused Chief Minister Sarma of orchestrating a perilous scheme against Assam, referencing Rijiju's statements on the matter.

The Chakma community, originating from former East Pakistan in the 1960s, currently comprises over 65,000 individuals in Arunachal Pradesh. The situation surrounding their potential relocation to Assam remains a point of contention, with political leaders and local residents expressing divergent views on the matter.