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NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid tribute on Swahid Diwas, commemorating the martyrs of the Assam Movement, by highlighting their “extraordinary courage and sacrifices”.
He said efforts of the participants in the mass movement to preserve Assam’s unique culture and identity serve as enduring inspiration for the state’s development. “Swahid Diwas is an occasion to remember the extraordinary courage and sacrifices of those who dedicated themselves to the Assam Movement. Their unwavering resolve and selfless efforts helped preserve Assam’s unique culture and identity. Their valour also inspires us all to continue working towards a developed Assam,” he posted on X.
The Assam Movement was an upsurge against the influx of illegal Bangladeshi migrants that altered the demography in many parts of the state. His remarks underscore BJP’s strategy to align itself with the legacy of the movement – led by All Assam Students’ Union and All-Assam Gana Sangram Parishad and later politically represented by Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which is now part of NDA. By invoking these sentiments, BJP seeks to connect Assamese identity with its developmental vision, reinforcing its political foothold. The movement culminated in the Assam Accord of 1985, but remains a contentious issue. AGP, born from the movement, initially gained political prominence but gradually declined due to governance challenges and unmet promises.
Over the years, BJP has emerged as the dominant force in Assam, repositioning itself as the custodian of Assamese identity. Through a blend of cultural politics, the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act, and an inclusive coalition approach, BJP has extended its influence across communities. Modi’s focus on infrastructure and economic growth has further cemented the party’s appeal. While Congress, once dominant, was perceived as indifferent to the migration issue during the movement, its subsequent inability to address voter concerns has eroded its influence in Assam.
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