Guwahati: Assam’s Minister for the Implementation of the Assam Accord, Atul Bora, expressed grave concern on Tuesday over the persecution of minority Hindus in Bangladesh and emphasized the urgent need to address border security.
Speaking to ANI, Bora, who also leads the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), underscored the sacrifices made by India during Bangladesh’s liberation and called for proactive measures to resolve ongoing issues.
“What our nation did for the freedom of Bangladesh should not be forgotten. It is unfortunate, the incidents happening in Bangladesh against the Hindus. Our senior official has visited Bangladesh, and I hope the issue will be resolved soon,” Bora remarked.
Bora also stressed the importance of preventing infiltration and strengthening border security, recalling that the Assam Movement was initially sparked by opposition to illegal immigration from Bangladesh. He pointed out ongoing fencing efforts at the border and criticized previous governments for failing to implement the Assam Accord, signed in 1985 after a six-year-long movement.
“The central government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, constituted a high-level committee chaired by Justice (Retd) Biplab Sharma. The state government is committed to implementing most of its recommendations,” Bora stated. He further accused the Congress of undermining border security for electoral gains, asserting that the Modi government has ensured the border’s safety.
The Assam government observed Swahid Divas (Martyrs’ Day) on Tuesday, honoring the 860 people who lost their lives during the Assam Movement. A ceremony held at Swahid Smarak Park in Boragaon was attended by Bora, Tourism Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass, and Forest Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary.
During the program, Bora announced progress on the construction of Swahid Smarak Udyan at Pachim Boragaon, which will feature an auditorium, a light and sound system, and a cycle track. “The first phase is complete, and the project will be inaugurated next year. On this holy occasion, I pay my tribute to the martyrs whose self-sacrifice will always inspire us,” Bora stated. He also highlighted the government’s continued support for the families of the martyrs.
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