By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 30: The Central Body and the Shillong Circle of the Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU) on Monday urged the Centre to enact a comprehensive National Anti-Racial Discrimination Law to ensure the safety and protection of people from the Northeast across the country.
In a memorandum submitted to Governor Chandrashekhar H. Vijayashankar, JSU adviser A. Suchiang highlighted the continued instances of racial discrimination, verbal abuse, harassment, and violence faced by people from the region in various parts of the country.
He stated that despite being equal citizens, individuals from the Northeast are frequently subjected to racial slurs, humiliation, and even physical attacks due to their appearance, culture, language, and food habits. He noted that many students and professionals living outside the region continue to feel unsafe due to repeated incidents of racism.
Citing past incidents, the JSU adviser pointed to the death of Nido Tania in 2014 in New Delhi following a racially motivated assault, as well as a recent case involving Angel Chakma, who was attacked in Dehradun. The union also referred to incidents of harassment of women from Arunachal Pradesh in Delhi and the assault on a Mizo woman during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He further stated in the memorandum that many cases of racial abuse go unreported, with people often being subjected to derogatory remarks targeting their identity.
Terming the situation as serious, he said such acts violate the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of India, including equality before law, protection against discrimination, and the right to live with dignity.
He proposed that the Centre enact a law that specifically criminalises racial abuse, discrimination, and racially motivated violence. The union suggested strict penalties, including imprisonment for verbal abuse, physical assault, and severe punishment for fatal attacks driven by racial hatred.
“Such a law will act as a deterrent and ensure that people from the Northeast can live, study, and work with dignity anywhere in India,” Suchiang stated.
Emphasising India’s diversity, he said ensuring respect, equality, and safety for all communities is essential to uphold national unity and constitutional values.
The JSU adviser also appealed to the Governor to take up the matter with the appropriate authorities for necessary action.
