The sufferings of the Chakmas of Arunachal Pradesh
The sufferings being faced by the Chakma Hajongs in Arunachal Pradesh at present are as under:
1. No citizenship rights (No ration card, no birth certificates, no access to employment opportunities, no access to government welfare schemes)
2. No ST rights, even though they are among the most backward and vulnerable groups.
3. No metal roads and bridges at different locations. No proper schools, no colleges. Most of the Government schools are running with staff shortages.
4. Regular floods wash away vast agricultural lands. Therefore many Chakma families become landless, therefore compelled to work as tenant farmers in Khampti/Singhpo areas.
5. Lack of job opportunities and hunger compelled many families to send their minor children to towns in Arunachal Pradesh and also in other states to work as domestic help. Many incidents of physical, verbal and sexual abuses were reported. Some cases of missing children who went for domestic help were reported too. Regular migration of youths to cities and towns doing odd jobs is taking place either because they could not continue formal education or being jobless.
6. Due to lack of job opportunities, sitting idle at home, many young children are getting addicted to drugs and alcohols abuse.
7. Partial Law and order enforcement agencies being misused to harass and victimise the innocent Chakma and Hajong people at every opportunity.
8. Extortion from poor Chakma/Hajong vegetable vendors at border district gates.
9. Indifferent, rude behaviour and discrimination being faced in offices and establishments in AP.
This list is by no means exhaustive. These are only some of the many issues plaguing the Chakma and Hajongs