“Mainland must know northeast”: Arunachal MLA urges Centre for chapters on northeast in school books

In the wake of an incident of racial discrimination in Delhi against three Arunachal women, Doimukh MLA Nabam Vivek has strongly condemned the episode and called upon the Union Government to introduce dedicated chapters on the culture, traditions, and demographic landscape of Northeast states in school textbooks.

Expressing deep concern over what he described as a recurring pattern of ignorance and prejudice, Vivek asserted that such incidents stem from a lack of awareness about the Northeast region among people in other parts of the country. He emphasized that while citizens of the Northeast are well-versed with the geography, culture, and socio-political landscape of states such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Maharashtra, the same level of understanding is often not reciprocated.

“It is unfortunate that a large section of mainland Indians remains unaware of the rich heritage, traditions, and demographic diversity of the Northeast,” the legislator said, underscoring that education is the most effective tool to bridge this cultural divide.

The MLA argued that incorporating comprehensive chapters about the eight Northeastern states into the national curriculum would foster mutual respect, national integration, and cultural sensitivity from an early age. He maintained that such academic reforms would not only promote inclusivity but also help prevent racial stereotyping and discrimination.

Vivek further noted that the northeast holds a unique and vibrant cultural identity within India’s broader national fabric. From indigenous traditions and languages to distinct social practices and historical narratives, the region’s contributions deserve equal representation in educational discourse, he said.

The demand comes amid renewed conversations around racial sensitivity and inclusivity in metropolitan cities, particularly involving citizens from Northeastern states who frequently report experiences of discrimination. 

Meanwhile, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has strongly condemned the alleged racial abuse of three women from the state residing in Malviya Nagar, South Delhi.

Taking serious note of the incident, the Chief Minister said he had personally spoken with the Commissioner of Delhi Police to ensure swift action. 

Meanwhile, police confirmed that a case has been registered at Malviya Nagar Police Station against two local residents for allegedly racially abusing and criminally intimidating the women tenants from the Northeast.

According to officials, the FIR has been lodged under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 79 (word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman), Section 351(2) (criminal intimidation), Section 196 (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds such as religion, race, or place of birth), and provisions related to acts done with common intention.

The accused have been identified as Harsh Singh and his wife, Ruby Jain, residents of Malviya Nagar.

The incident reportedly took place on February 20 at around 3:30 PM, when the three women were supervising electrical installation work in their rented flat. Police said that dust from drilling work allegedly entered the apartment below, triggering a confrontation between the tenants and their neighbours. The complainants alleged racial remarks, mental harassment, and humiliation. No physical injuries were reported.