Addressing Racial Discrimination Against Northeast Students: Insights from Delhi Police
Concerns Over Racial Attacks on Northeast Youth
Guwahati, Jan 9: The issue of racial violence targeting students and young individuals from the Northeast in various regions of India is a significant concern. The Union Ministry of DoNER has a crucial role to play in addressing this challenge.
Robin Hibu, the Special Commissioner of Delhi Police, who was instrumental in establishing the Northeast Cell within the police department, shared these insights.
In a conversation regarding this pressing matter, Hibu noted that there are several factors contributing to the current scenario. He highlighted that many students and job seekers often interact with individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds, such as shopkeepers and drivers, who may lack awareness about the Northeast. Even among educated individuals, knowledge about the region is limited, as educational institutions seldom cover it in their curricula, leading to a general apprehension about visiting the area.
Language barriers further complicate matters for youths relocating from the Northeast, leaving them uncertain about whom to approach for assistance. Many of these individuals find employment in the unorganized sector, where they frequently encounter discrimination.
Hibu emphasized that while the Delhi Police has established a robust Northeast cell for support, similar resources are lacking in other states, leaving youths from the region without a reliable point of contact. He criticized the media for focusing primarily on severe incidents, such as fatalities, while neglecting smaller yet significant issues that contribute to the broader context of discrimination.
Regarding potential solutions, Hibu suggested that the DoNER Ministry and the North Eastern Council could take proactive measures. He proposed creating a database of students and job seekers from the Northeast and implementing orientation programs to prepare them for their experiences in different states, including safety tips.
Additionally, he advocated for the establishment of world-class educational institutions in the Northeast, which would reduce the need for students to migrate elsewhere for studies. Hibu remarked, “While I don’t discourage students from exploring opportunities outside, having top-notch facilities nearby would alleviate many challenges related to food, climate, and language.”
Lastly, he urged the government to enhance tourism in the Northeast. Increased visits from individuals across the country would foster greater understanding of the region, ultimately reducing instances of racial discrimination.