AIZAWL, Nov 18 - Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), Mizoram�s apex student body, on Monday renewed its protest against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill (CAB) as the Bill is scheduled to be re-introduced in the Parliament winter session.
The protest was part of a regionwide agitation called by the North East Students� Organisation (NESO).
Speaking at the demonstration in front of Vanapa Hall, MZP president B Vanlaltana said, �The CAB is not safe for the Northeast people. When civil societies in Mizoram called for a boycott of Republic Day this year in protest against the BJP-led government�s attempt to renew the CAB, the Mizoram government appealed us to call off the boycott, giving us assurances. Now, we demand the government to do its duty.� �If the Central government passes the Bill, the Mizo youth will do what they have to do,� he warned.
Speaking on the occasion, NESO finance secretary Ricky Lalbiakmawia said, �The CAB gives undue favouritism to Hindus and suppressed religious minorities. It is a draconian Bill. We will not allow the North East to be a dumping ground or a safe haven for migrants.�
Praising Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga for his vociferous opposition to the Bill, Lalbiakmawia said, �The people of the North East are wondering if he will continue to oppose the Bill. We request him to come forward against the Bill, putting aside party and personal interests.�
Meanwhile, People�s Representation for Identity and Status of Mizoram (PRISM), a political party in Mizoram, alleged that the Centre was giving preference to foreigners over Indian citizens. PRISM president Vanlalruata, protesting against the CAB, said, �The BJP-led government at the Centre is so keen to give citizenship to aliens at the cost of its citizens.� He urged the Centre to reconsider its decision and said the North East should be exempted from the ambit of the Bill.
