Guwahati, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, addressing the ‘Swahid Divas’ program in Boragaon, Guwahati, passionately appealed to the Assamese community to take a collective stand against selling land to “suspected foreigners.” During the event commemorating the martyrs of the Assam Agitation, Sarma stressed the critical role of this pledge in preserving the cultural fabric and identity of the indigenous population.
Sarma, reflecting on the economic motivations behind such transactions, expressed his belief that if every Assamese commits to not selling land to suspected foreigners, it would serve as a robust safeguard for the community. He went a step further, revealing government plans to introduce legislation preventing land sales to “outsiders” in culturally significant areas such as Majuli, Barpeta, and Batadrawa.
In a poignant moment, the Chief Minister recounted his association with the Assam Agitation, a six-year struggle against illegal immigrants that culminated in the signing of the Assam Accord in 1985. Sarma underscored the dual focus of the movement, not just rooted in emotions but also in logic. He lamented the shift in work ethic among Assamese youths, enabling suspected foreigners to dominate trade and commerce in vital locations.
Economic independence emerged as a key theme in Sarma’s address, echoing the vision of leaders during the Assam Agitation. He urged the youth to embrace hard work, emphasizing the dignity of labor and its pivotal role in both individual and community advancement.
Sarma did not shy away from addressing government officials, cautioning those who compromised the progress of the state for personal gains. Specifically, he warned against fraudulent inclusions in the National Register of Citizens (NRC), vowing to identify those responsible for compromising its sanctity.
As he concluded, Sarma highlighted the symbiotic relationship between societal vigilance and governmental initiatives in protecting the community’s interests. The proposed ‘Swahid Stambh’ (martyrs’ column) and ‘Swahid Udyan’ (park) in Boragaon are envisioned as perpetual reminders for future generations to strive for the welfare of their ‘jati’ (community).
