Arunachal: Protest By Chakma-Hajong Communities, Demands Restoration of RPCs

ITANAGAR : A non-cooperation movement has been initiated by two communities in Arunachal Pradesh starting from 23rd of December to 30th of December, 2022. The prime cause behind this protest is the state government's inaction to restore the Residential Proof Certificates (RPCs). 

The non cooperation movement has been launched by the All Chakma-Hajongs Community Bases Organisations (CBOs), Arunachal Pradesh Chakma Students Union (APCSU) along with Arunachal Pradesh Hajong Students Union ( APHSU ). 

The union body represents the student fraternity of the Chakma-Hajong communities in Arunachal Pradesh. The entire movement revolved against the government. The public who braced the protest, did not open the weekly markets whereas, the students boycotted their regular classes to demonstrate objection. 

The apex body claimed that, the RPC holds a very important position in the every student's lives. It is a document needed to get employment in the central government, admissions in education institutions and to get a job in some private sector.

In a statement, the protesters asserted that RPC is a fundamental right of the Chakma and Hajong community. They fear that the sudden cancellation of RPC will hamper them in all spheres of life. The president of APCSU, Drishya Muni Chakma, stated that, RPCs were supposed to be reinstated by the 15th of December, 2022.

Until now the two marginalised communities were maintaining peace as they expected the state government to understand the importance of it. However, the non cooperation movement will only soar higher, unless their demand is fulfilled, added Drishya Muni Chakma.

The student body asserted that, if Arunachal government doesn't revert in a positive way, then the issue will expand to other states as well. The protesters are of the view that, cancelling RPCs is equal to snatching away one's basic human rights. 

It is to be noted that, in 2013 Guwahati High Court confirmed that, people belonging to Chakma and Hajong community in Arunachal Pradesh do not need any sort of inner line permit.

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