Unity and autonomy called by Wesean Student Federation (WSF)
Kohima: The Wesean Student Federation (WSF) has issued a strong statement in support of Chief Minister Lalduhoma’s advocacy for Mizoram’s right to self-determination and increased unity among the Wesean people.
In their response to what they describe as the inconsistencies and contradictions in the Indian narrative, the WSF questioned the fairness of India’s stance towards calls for unity among kin.
The WSF expressed frustration over the perceived hypocrisy in India’s approach to unification. “Why is it that when certain ideals of unification are promoted, we are told to stand by in reverence, but when we seek unity amongst our own people, we are branded as threats?” they stated.
The federation pointed to India’s claim of “unity in diversity,” arguing that it seems to apply selectively, especially when regional aspirations challenge the central narrative.
The statement highlighted the contradiction in India’s national vision of “Akhand Bharat,” which celebrates a united identity encompassing vast lands and diverse peoples, while simultaneously condemning Weseans for seeking solidarity with their kin across borders.
The WSF criticized the government’s immigration policies, particularly the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), describing it as a selective measure that prioritizes certain communities while marginalizing the Weseans.
Furthermore, the WSF addressed concerns over demographic changes in the region, noting the irony in India’s acceptance of demographic shifts from “Bengalis” while opposing Wesean solidarity.
They also recalled the controversial agreement between India and Myanmar that involved the transfer of the Kabaw valley without proper consultation, raising concerns about the rights and voices of local populations.
The federation took issue with India’s security measures, such as the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), arguing that these policies treat Weseans as threats rather than citizens deserving protection.
“India’s aspirations for peace and integration often manifest in ways that silence, surveil, and restrict us,” they stated, questioning the true nature of “unity” under such circumstances.
WSF called for a re-examination of India’s narrative, emphasizing that true unity cannot be imposed from above. They asserted that Wesean identity and cultural ties, which predate the concept of India, should be respected.
“Our connections with those across borders are not recent or trivial; they are rooted in centuries of shared traditions and cultural practices,” the statement read.
The WSF urged the Indian government to confront its contradictions and to respect the voices and aspirations of the Wesean people. They reiterated their commitment to cultural solidarity, asserting that their pursuit of unity is not a separatist agenda, but rather an expression of the very values India claims to uphold.
“If India genuinely seeks unity, it must begin by respecting the unique identities and historical ties of all its communities,” the federation concluded.
