BORDUMSA, SEP 6:
The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Chakma and Hajong community-based organisations (CBOs) of Arunachal Pradesh has called for a prompt, impartial and transparent investigation into the incidents that occurred at Bordumsa on September 3 and 4 during and SIR hearing.
According to the JAC, around 600 Chakma electors from Bijoypur-I, II and III had assembled peacefully outside the Panchayat Hall, Bordumsa, on September 3 for the hearing. The proceedings were subsequently disrupted amid disturbances at the venue and were adjourned and rescheduled for September 4.
The JAC said that during the rescheduled hearing on September 4, a large crowd reportedly entered the ADC Office Chamber, which had been designated as the hearing venue. It alleged that the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) conducting the hearing was assaulted and government property, including the ADC’s vehicle, was damaged.
The committee said applicants waiting outside the premises reportedly remained peaceful, while there were also reports of provocation and stone-pelting in the vicinity. It further said communal slogans were allegedly raised on the public road as the gathering dispersed, followed by a verbal exchange and brief physical confrontation.
The JAC also referred to reports of firearms being displayed and sounds resembling gunfire before security personnel intervened and dispersed the gathering using tear gas. However, it clarified that these were reports and allegations requiring verification through a proper investigation.
Stressing that the incidents occurred in a large and fluid gathering, the JAC said responsibility for any specific act, including injuries or damage to property, should be established through a fair and evidence-based investigation.
The committee expressed concern over the reported injuries sustained by an AAPSU member and some Chakma electors during the confrontation, and wished all those injured a speedy recovery.
The JAC condemned any disruption of a lawful electoral hearing, assault on public officials, damage to government property, communal provocation, violence or display or use of firearms around a public hearing venue, irrespective of those responsible.
It appreciated what it described as the restraint maintained by Chakma applicants and community leaders during the incidents and appealed to all stakeholders to uphold peace and non-violence.
The JAC acknowledged that AAPSU and sections of the Singpho and Khamti communities may have concerns regarding the Form 6, 7 and 8 hearing process and its implications. It said such concerns should be addressed through constitutional, administrative and lawful mechanisms rather than confrontation or disruption of electoral proceedings.
The committee urged the district administration to conduct a prompt and impartial investigation and take action in accordance with law based on the evidence collected. It also proposed a structured dialogue involving AAPSU, representatives of the Singpho and Khamti communities, Chakma and Hajong representatives and the State administration to address the concerns of all stakeholders.
Appealing for restraint, the JAC urged all communities to refrain from retaliation and inflammatory rhetoric, avoid circulating unverified information on social media and allow the investigation and electoral process to proceed according to law.
The committee said the communities of 49-Diyun-Bordumsa Assembly Constituency, despite having distinct histories and differing views on the present electoral process, share a long history of coexistence and a common future. It reiterated its commitment to peace, dignity and the rule of law in the constituency.
