NESO Observes Black Day in Shillong, KSU Highlights Concerns Over CAA and ILP

The All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU) also observed Black Day today in Itanagar.

The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), as part of the North East Students’ Organization (NESO) observed ‘Black Day’ in Shillong today to protest the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019.

The observance was part of a broader initiative across the Northeastern region, aimed at raising awareness about the potential threats the CAA poses to indigenous communities and demanded its revocation.

NESO, a coalition of youth bodies from the region, including KSU, All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), Twipra Students’ Federation (TSF), All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU), Garo Students’ Union (GSU), and All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU), has been vocal in opposing the CAA.

The coalition, led by Samuel B. Jyrwa, has consistently raised concerns that the Act could disrupt the region’s demographic balance, particularly with regard to illegal immigration.

In Shillong, the KSU led the demonstration with banners and placards that carried strong messages against the Meghalaya government’s stance on protecting indigenous rights.

One banner demanded clarity on the state’s position regarding the Inner Line Permit (ILP), a long-standing issue that has yet to be addressed by the central government.

Protesters also raised concerns about the declining Khasi population in Shillong, which has reportedly fallen to 46-48%, claiming that this trend threatens the community’s cultural identity and existence.

In Arunachal Pradesh, the All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU) also observed Black Day in Itanagar.

NESO leader Pritam Waii Sonam maintained that the student body is against CAAa nd will continue its opposition until the contentious Act is repealed.

The CAA, passed on November 11, 2019, amidst widespread opposition, seeks to provide citizenship to persecuted minorities, including Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians from neighbouring countries.

However, regional organizations, including NESO, consider the Act as a direct challenge to the region’s demographic balance, fearing it would exacerbate illegal immigration issues.

Also Read: Why is Meghalaya BJP Urging Aspirants for KHADC and JHADC Elections to Submit Applications by Dec 30?

COMMENTS