The Arunachal Pradesh State Human Rights Commission (APSHRC) has advised urgent infrastructure improvements and flood-control measures in Chakma and Hajong settlement regions of Changlang district. The APSHRC emphasized the importance of these actions to ensure the continuity of migrant communities in their designated areas while protecting the demographic interests of the indigenous tribes. Recommendations were made following a field visit to the settlement areas, highlighting issues like inadequate road connectivity and frequent flooding caused by the Dihing River.
The Commission identified the pressing need for enhanced road infrastructure in the Chakma-Hajong settlement zones, noting the significant economic growth of the region. Current poor road conditions, especially along the 33-km stretch between Namsai and Diyun, hamper economic activities and transportation. Improved road connectivity is seen as crucial not only for economic progress in Changlang and Namsai districts but also for bolstering security interests, given the presence of the 2nd Arunachal Pradesh India Reserve Battalion headquarters in Diyun.
Additionally, the APSHRC underscored the economic significance of the area’s areca nut industry, with Diyun Circle alone contributing around Rs 50 crore annually to the trade. It was noted that better infrastructure would not only enhance economic prospects but also uplift livelihoods for all communities in the region. The Commission also drew attention to the recurring floods from the Dihing River, causing agricultural land erosion and crop damage in Chakma and Hajong settlements, leading to displacement and expansion pressures.
In its recommendations, the Commission urged the state government to expedite ongoing road projects, ensure comprehensive coverage of settlement areas under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), and consider incorporating these routes into the proposed East-West Industrial Corridor for dual-lane road development. Furthermore, comprehensive flood-control measures in the Chakma-Hajong settlement regions were advised, potentially with support from the North Eastern Council (NEC) and the Government of India, to enable affected populations to stay within their designated zones. These recommendations are crucial amid discussions on safeguarding demographic integrity and indigenous rights in Arunachal Pradesh.
