Guwahati, 8th March: Tensions escalate as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s impending visit to Kaziranga is overshadowed by allegations of government interference in peaceful demonstrations. Bhupen Kumar Borah, President of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee, has raised concerns over purported threats aimed at bus owners, allegedly obstructing the opposition’s plans to mobilize protesters.
According to Borah, the opposition intended to ferry individuals from various locations to Kaziranga using around 100 buses. However, government intervention reportedly coerced bus conductors and drivers into refraining from participating in the planned protests.
“We were attempting to engage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi by sitting at the table,” Borah asserted. “We simply want to make the Prime Minister understand how dangerous the Citizenship (Amendment) Act can be for the people of Assam.”
Expressing frustration over perceived obstruction of democratic processes, Borah questioned the government’s actions, asking, “How and why can the government do this? How can the government obstruct a democratic and peaceful protest like this? Is this democracy? Is this how a government should function in a democratic country?”
Highlighting the importance of dialogue and peaceful engagement, Borah asserted that if avenues for discussion are blocked, protesters may resort to taking to the streets.
“If we are not allowed to meet him (PM Modi), what other option do we have besides taking to the streets?” Borah questioned. “And when we attempt to take to the streets, bus owners are threatened. Congress won’t be allowed buses, the opposition won’t be allowed buses for protests. Where is the democracy here?”
Drawing on historical references, Borah invoked Lachit Borphukan’s famous quote, “Dexot koi Mumbai Dangor Nohoi” (My uncle is not more precious than my own country). He emphasized the rejection of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and urged Prime Minister Modi to heed the concerns of the people of Assam.
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