After a brief lull, the debate over creation of Mon and Patkai Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) is resurfaced. The main objective behind the demand for autonomy is to strengthen the communities residing in these areas who share religious, linguistic, social and cultural affinity.

Notably, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura states are under the VIth Schedule of the Constitution with scheduled area provision for creation of ADC where as Arunachal Pradesh has not been given that constitutional benefit within the VIth Schedule.

According to experts, for creation of Mon Autonomous Council, Constitution amendment is the only solution. The Arunachal government doesn’t have much say in the matter of creation of Autonomous Council, however, it must be conscious of the fact that, if an when the demand for Mon Autonomous Council is realized, it will open a Pandora’s Box.  The Centre which is bearing the brunt after formation of Telangana is also aware of the peril involved in taking such decisions.

The demand for autonomy is not a new one; in fact, the state assembly had passed the resolution for creation of Mon and Patkai Autonomous District Councils in 2004. Even after 13 years, there is still no consensus on the issue of autonomy.

However, those against the granting of autonomy contend that creation of Mon and Patkai will be against the unity and welfare of Arunachal Pradesh. This aspect the state government can’t neglect as there is also demand for creation of a Taniland Autonomous Council. It would be worthwhile to remember that people of Siang belt have been seeking formation of separate Autonomous Councils based on same principle of protecting their own culture and identity.

Those opposing the autonomy demand maintain that if the demand for Mon and Patkai is granted it will be the beginning of the end for the state. They argue that it will create more imbalances in terms of development and opportunities.

As of now, Mon area (West Kameng and Tawang) and Patkai (Changlang, Longding and Tirap) are given lion’s share of the funds for development. Moreover, there are dedicated departments such as department of Karmik and Adhyatmik Affairs, department of Tirap, Changlang and Longding for these areas. To add to it, these areas have far better facilities and infrastructure compared to other districts.

Caught between the devil and the deep sea, it would be interesting how the government comes out from the dilemma.