Tripura: Bru refugees accuse MHA officials of threatening with ‘dire consequences’ for denying repatriation offer

By Our Correspondent

AGARTALA: Accusing MHA special secretary for internal security Rina Mitra, of threatening them with 'drastic step' which could lead to 'dire consequences' over repatriation package, Bru refugees living in transit camps in North Tripura district today said they did not agreed to the offer.

Speaking to the correspondent, refugee leader Bruno Msha said they have clearly said 'no' to the repatriation package offered by Delhi and sought better package to ensure 'survival and sustenance' back home.

Over 35 thousand people of Reang community fled Mamit, Kolasib and Lunglei districts of Mizoram during ethnic clashes in 1997-98. They have been living in six relief camps in Kanchanpur of North Tripura ever since.

While 1,600 families were repatriated in seven phases, the MHA has initiated a special drive since last year to end the repatriation issue for good.

Three members of MHA team headed by special secretary for internal security Rina Mitra met the refugee leaders here on Friday and offered a 'final package' of Rs. 1.3 lakh one-time financial assistance, 1.5 ganda land plot, free ration and Rs. 5,000 every month for each repatriated family over next two years.

MHA special secretary Rina Mitra told the correspondent that no deadline was served for repatriation. However, she said her ministry would 'facilitate' the repatriation.

On the issue, today Bru refugee leader Bruno Msha said that the repatriation offer, which he termed 'highly insufficient' was forced upon the refugees. The central govt has taken 'harsh decision' to close down all Reang refugee relief camps and stop ration supplies if we deny the package, Bruno said.

Asked about their demand, the refugee leader said they sought a higher package for 'survival and sustenance. "We have sought Rs. 10 lakh financial assistance, 5 hectare of land for agriculture, security by CAPF, bigger dwelling house plot, one government job in each family among other issues", they said.

He also said the refugees would resort to 'democratic movement' if their 'legitimate demands' were not considered.

TNT- The Northeast Today News

Featured image: NORTHEAST NOW