Itanagar, May 27: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has welcomed the Central Government's decision to constitute a High-Level Committee on Demographic Change, stating that national security and protection of indigenous identity are deeply interconnected, particularly for border states and the North East region.
In a statement posted on social media, Khandu said the initiative taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah reflects “foresight and seriousness” towards an issue that carries long-term implications for the nation.
“National security and protection of indigenous identity are deeply connected, especially for border states and the North East,” the Chief Minister stated while expressing support for the Centre’s move.
Highlighting the unique demographic and cultural sensitivities of Arunachal Pradesh, Khandu said safeguarding cultural heritage, demographic balance and social harmony is not merely a policy issue but a responsibility towards future generations.
“For states like Arunachal Pradesh, safeguarding cultural heritage, demographic balance and social harmony is not merely a policy matter, but a responsibility towards future generations,” he said.
The Chief Minister further expressed gratitude to the Union Government for addressing the concerns of border and North Eastern states “with sensitivity and commitment.”
The High-Level Committee on Demographic Change, to be chaired by former Supreme Court Judge Justice Prakash Prabhakar Naolekar, is expected to study issues arising from demographic changes and recommend measures to address concerns related to indigenous populations, cultural identity, migration patterns and regional stability.
The development has drawn attention across the North East, where questions relating to demographic balance and protection of indigenous rights continue to remain key socio-political concerns.