Split in Mizoram Bru Displaced Peoples’ Forum (MBPDF), Repatriation of Bru Refugees Uncertain

A CORRESPONDENT

AGARTALA, Aug 9 : Uncertainty looming large over the proposed repatriation of the 32,000 Reang (Bru) refugees sheltered in six camps in North Tripura for last 22 years as a newly emerged section among them has become active to frustrate the entire process.

The newly emerged group has already floated a new organization defying the Mizoram Bru Displaced Peoples’ Forum (MBPDF) which represented the refugees for so many years and signed an agreement with the Centre and the Mizoram government for repatriation. The Mizoram Bru Displaced Peoples’ Co-ordination Committee alleged that the MBPDF leaders have signed the agreement either under duress or for some personal gain but not for the interest of the refugees. The newly formed committee has raised seven point demands which include formation of Area Development Council for the returnees, five hactor land for each family, formation of cluster model village, cash advance payment etc.

The Co-ordination committee headed by its president S H Laldingliana has taken an aggressive stand and started spreading fear among the refugees that caused an uncertain atmosphere in the camps. The journalists visited the Naisinghpara camp on Wednesday but none of the refugees were ready to talk to them. A government official looking after the refugee matter admitted that some uneasy is prevailing in the camps but is hopeful that the repatriation will begin from August 14 as per schedule. Meanwhile, the Mizoram Government has said they are fully ready to receive the Brus following their repatriation and making all arrangement to rehebiliate them in Mamith, Kolashiv and Lunglei district.