Citizens' group questions Gao on Tibetan refugees

FROM OUR CORRESPONDENT

Itagar, Sept 13: The Aruchal Civil Society (ACS) has questioned BJP state unit president Tapir Gao on implementation of the Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy in the state.

“How can Gao certify implementation of the policy which will have adverse effect on the indigenous population of the state?” ACS Chairman Patey Tayum said in a statement here today. Gao had a few days ago said the Tibetans were not claiming citizenship but staying in three settlements in the state in an organised way unlike the Chakma and Hajong refugees.

Castigating Gao, Tayum said that as per RTI documents obtained, hundreds of Tibetans from Shyo Village have already obtained ST certificates illegally and many have been absorbed in government jobs too. “As per record, the Tibetans have job reservation policies in the world whereas Indians do not have such kind of facilities. Even in India, Tibetans have reservation policy in every central department such as railway, military services, and are provided civic amenities that Aruchalees do not get,” he pointed out.

Tayum wondered how the state’s ruling party could assure that the rehabilitation policy would not affect the indigenous population in any way. “Did the central government pass an amendment to make implementation of the refugee policy compulsory in Aruchal Pradesh? As per the Constitution of India, the state government has the power to accept or reject any central rule not require for the state,” he said.

“If the policy is implemented, the Pema Khandu government would pave way for the Chakmas and Hajongs, who have been knocking on the door of Supreme Court for two decades seeking permanent settlement in the state,” Tayum said.

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