Shillong, Jan 11: The Chakma and Hajong Elders Forum (CHEF) in Arunachal Pradesh rejected any illegal census and proposal for relocation of the two communities.
For permanent solution of the Chakma Hajong problems in the state, the CHEF demanded a “Special economic package for the Chakmas and Hajongs of Arunachal Pradesh” to compensate the suffering and denial of rights and access to development to them in the last 57 years, a statement issued on Tuesday said.
“This economic package is necessary to ensure that the Chakmas and Hajongs can develop at par with other local communities of Arunachal Pradesh and must include funding for flood control measures to prevent damage caused by flooding of the Noa Dihing River to the Chakmas and Hajongs,” said Anil Chakma, president of CHEF.
“The Chakmas and Hajongs have immensely contributed to the economic development of the state despite facing institutionalised discrimination… The state government and Union of India must not disturb peace loving Chakmas and Hajongs of the state,” said Pritimoy Chakma of the organisation.
