First Reactions From N-E Condemn Centre’s Move on Kashmir as "Undemocratic"

SHILLONG: Probably the first to reaction from the north east region to the developments on Kashmir is from the Mizoram political party PRISM (People's Representation for Identity and Status of Mizoram) which has condemned the abrogation of Article 370 and the revocation of Special Status of the State of of Jammu & Kashmir.

A press release signed by the general secretary of the party, R L Liantluanga said that this is likely to have a snowball effect on the status of Mizoram which is under Article 371G. The press release also warned that the Inner Line Permit (ILP) Regulation is likely to be targeted in the same way. ILP is a Regulation under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873. Non-indigenous persons on private trips (to the State) are allowed into the state only on obtaining a document called the ILP which permits the person a few days stay. However, it can be extended.

PRISM said that the dismemberment of J&K into two Union Territories is a condemnable act.

PRISM said that the GoI’s actions and disregard for the sentiments of the people and for democratic norms in the case of Article 370 is a clear indicator that the people of Mizoram should be forewarned and be prepared for what could also be their fate.

As the news of the abrogation of Article 370 and dismemberment of Kashmir sunk in, rather than the main regional parties, it was the small groups and parties that were galvanized into giving statements while the social media was trending with dark comments on the likely fate of the north eastern states and the tiny communities and tribes which mostly continue to survive under special provisions.

Krishak Mukti Sangra Samiti (KMSS) advisor, Akhil Gogoi in Assam held a press conference to condemn the Central Government for lifting the special status promised to J & K by the Constitution. He said that this bodes ill for the country.

Ally of the Bharatiya Janatia Party (BJP) in Tripura, the Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), differed with the BJP over Article 370 and 35 A. IPFT is an ally of the BJP government .

The INPT is preparing a letter to formally state their oppostion to the Central Government’s plans for J &K.. This party has always been for continuing with Article 370 and 35A which gives special protection and powers to the J & K state which they believe were basic provisions of the Constitution and that the country should maintain status quo.