AAPSU Demands Suspension of Electoral Roll Revision Amid Bordumsa Violence
Violence Erupts During Electoral Roll Revision in Arunachal Pradesh
One injured after violence erupted in Bordumsa during SIR exercise in Arunachal Pradesh on Friday (Photo: AT)
Sadiya, Sept 4: The All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) has called for the immediate halt of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in areas populated by Chakma and Hajong communities following violent protests in Bordumsa, located in Changlang district.
During a press conference after the unrest, AAPSU president Meje Taku emphasized their demand for the Arunachal government to suspend the SIR exercise in these regions.
Taku reported that an AAPSU member sustained injuries during the clashes and alleged that their group was attacked.
The student organization is also urging the authorities to apprehend those responsible for the violence, including the alleged instigators, while requesting that no FIRs be filed against AAPSU members related to the incident.
“It is evident from social media that AAPSU leaders faced attacks from refugees, particularly from the Chakma and Hajong communities. The SIR is a standard procedure by the Election Commission of India, and we were merely present to participate,” stated the AAPSU general secretary.
The organization has scheduled a meeting on September 12 at DK Hall, inviting various groups, political parties, and student unions to discuss the situation, finalize resolutions, and determine future actions.
Taku remarked that the Arunachal government must address concerns regarding the Chakma and Hajong communities, illegal immigration, and the welfare of the state's indigenous population.
He noted that an SIR committee was formed months ago, led by the vice-president, to oversee the revision process statewide. While the process was peaceful in most areas, Bordumsa experienced significant unrest.
“No one can dictate terms to the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh. We will decide who can reside here. Our community has endured enough; we will not tolerate further suffering. We will respond if necessary,” he asserted.
The tensions in Bordumsa arose during protests against the inclusion of Chakma community members in the SIR process at the Additional Deputy Commissioner's office.
As protests escalated, reports indicated clashes and gunfire, although the identities of those who fired shots and the context remain unclear.
Additionally, an AAPSU leader was reportedly injured in a machete attack during the disturbances, heightening the situation.
In response to claims that AAPSU members were involved in gunfire, Taku stated, “If anyone can provide proof of bullet injuries, then they can accuse us. No one has suffered from gunshot wounds; injuries were caused by sharp objects. That is the reality.”
To maintain order and prevent further violence, security forces have been deployed in Bordumsa.
Taku mentioned that the upcoming meeting on September 12 will determine AAPSU's next steps and the course of action for the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh, urging all interested organizations to participate.