The recent commencement of the Mizoram Bru refugees’ settlement process in Tripura has drawn attention across the nation. This move was made in alignment with a quadripartite agreement signed in New Delhi in January 2020.
Background: The Bru/Reang Community
Bru, or Reang, is an indigenous community from Northeast India and predominantly resides in Tripura, Mizoram and Assam. Particularly in Tripura, they are recognised as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group. In contrast, they have faced adversity in Mizoram where other groups do not perceive them as native to the state. Clashes resulted from these ethnic tensions in 1997, leading to nearly 37,000 Brus fleeing Mamit, Kolasib and Lunglei districts of Mizoram. These refugees were then sheltered in relief camps in Tripura.
The Continuity of the Crisis
In the aftermath of the incident, efforts to repatriate the displaced Brus have been made yet only 5,000 out of the initial number have returned to Mizoram in eight phases while approximately 32,000 still reside in six relief camps in North Tripura. Attempts at repatriation were met with resistance from the camp residents. An agreement was proposed in June 2018, involving community leaders from the Bru camps, the Centre, and the two state governments. Despite the promise of resettlement back in Mizoram, the majority of the camp residents refused the proposal due to concerns over their safety in Mizoram.
Quadripartite Agreement: A Hopeful Resolution
In response to their refusal, a quadripartite agreement, involving the Centre, the governments of Mizoram and Tripura and leaders of Bru organisations, was signed in January 2020. This pact stipulated that the Home Ministry would shoulder all expenses regarding the refugees’ settlement in Tripura.
Details of The Settlement Plan
As per the agreement, a comprehensive package was put forth to ensure the safe and sustainable resettlement of each refugee family. The package includes: a plot of land, a fixed deposit of Rs. 4 lakh, free ration, and a monthly stipend of Rs. 5,000 for two years. In addition to these, each family will be allocated Rs. 1.5 lakh to construct their dwelling, affirming the initiative’s commitment to multidimensional support for the families affected by the crisis.
The recent development marks a pivotal time in the history of the Bru/Reang community. While the long-term effectiveness of the agreement is still to be seen, it provides a hopeful solution to decades-long displacement and instability. The neutrality and inclusivity of this agreement hint at a potential resolution of the crisis and a brighter future for the displaced Bru/Reang community.