Protests In Assam Against Inclusion Of 60 Villages In Bodoland Territorial Region

Numerous members of non-Bodo groups have been demonstrating in various areas of Assam over the past few days in opposition to the state government’s proposal to incorporate 60 villages in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).

Yesterday, protesters burned tyres on city streets to protest the BTR’s inclusion of Gohpur. The National Highway was stopped by demonstrators who shouted in opposition to the choice. During the Republic Day festivities, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the government has chosen to include villages with at least 80% Bodo population in the BTR.

“There can be no hindrance as far as inclusion of Bodo villages in BTR is concerned. If Bodo villages get included in BTR, then there is nothing to oppose,”  Ms Sarma said.

Soon after the major announcement, protests demanding the decision be reversed began in numerous regions of the state.

The BTR will contain 60 villages in Dhekiajuli, Behali, Sootea, Gohpur, and Biswanath that have at least 80% Bodo population.

The state government has pledged to put into effect the Tripartite Bodo Accord, which was signed in January 2020 and is intended to bring about long-term peace in the Bodoland region. Two student organisations announced a 12-hour Sonitpur bandh on January 28 in opposition to the Assam government’s choice.

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