Guwahati, 15th April: Nestled in the heart of Assam’s Sonitpur district lies Phuloguri Nepali Paam, a village that serves as the home to the esteemed Thapa family, renowned as one of the largest families in the state. As the Lok Sabha polls loom on April 19, approximately 350 eligible voters from the Thapa family are poised to make their mark in the region’s political landscape, highlighting the family’s significant political influence.
The Thapa family’s legacy traces back to the late Ron Bahadur Thapa, who made Assam his home in 1964. With a remarkable lineage comprising 12 sons, 9 daughters, and over 150 grandchildren, the family’s patriarchal journey has been instrumental in shaping their collective identity. Til Bahadur Thapa, the village headman and son of Ron Bahadur, reminisces about his father’s pioneering journey and the extensive network of descendants that spans across generations.
Despite their formidable numbers, the Thapa family grapples with socio-economic challenges, facing hurdles in accessing government support and opportunities. Til Bahadur Thapa expresses disappointment over the family’s limited access to state and central welfare schemes, highlighting the prevalent struggles in securing employment and education within the community.
Sarki Bahadur Thapa, another son of Ron Bahadur, sheds light on the sheer magnitude of the Thapa clan, revealing a staggering count of over 1200 members, with approximately 350 eligible voters gearing up for the upcoming polls.
However, amidst their notable presence in the electoral landscape, the Thapa family continues to navigate the absence of their patriarch, whose legacy continues to resonate despite his passing in 1997.
With the Sonitpur Lok Sabha seat encompassing over 16.25 lakh voters across 9 assembly segments, the impending elections hold significant importance for both political contenders and the Thapa family alike. As the collective voice of the Thapa family reverberates through the region, their participation is poised to shape the political narrative and influence the outcome of the elections.
Read More: Assam: Rhino Charges Tourist Vehicle at Manas National Park