‘Nagalim’ a greater threat than Chinese claims: AIPU
ITANAGAR, Mar 4: The ‘Greater Nagalim’ demand by the NSCN (IM) is a greater threat to Arunachal’s territorial integrity compared to the oft-repeated Chinese claims over the state, Arunachal Indigenous People’s Union (AIPU) observed today.
In a release, the union viewed the ‘Nagalim’ issue seriously in the backdrop of the ongoing peace talks at New Delhi between the Centre and NSCN (IM) leaders.
“The Naga leaders are adamant on their demand for a greater Nagaland that encompasses territories of several North Eastern states including Arunachal’s Tirap and Changlang districts (which facing threat of insurgency) and going by the attitude of New Delhi, it is a matter of greater concern for the indigenous tribes of the state than that of the Chin’s claims over the state,” the Union pointed out.
Asserting that the Indo-China border problem is a very old one with no solution in sight, it said making a hue and cry over the China issue will only help strengthen the Chinese stand.
Instead of taking up the Chinese claims, it suggested the state government as well as All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) to focus on chronic domestic problems, particularly the Naga talks.
On the refugee imbroglio, it said while the ‘Nagalim’ issue is a threat to the territorial integrity of the state, the refugee issue is a threat to the demographic profile of the state inhabited by the indigenous tribes.
It claimed that several Tibetans, Chakma and Hajong refugees because of their cultural and physical affinity with the local tribes are being provided with ST status and other benefits. These refugees would outnumber the indigenous population in the long run, if preventive steps are not taken soon, it apprehended. UNI
