Guwahati: On Republic Day, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a transformative vision for Dibrugarh, unveiling plans to develop the city as the state’s second capital within the next three years.
Addressing the gathering after unfurling the national flag in Dibrugarh, Sarma emphasized the city’s pivotal role in Assam’s future, highlighting it as the site for the upcoming permanent Assam assembly building on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River.
“Today marks a significant milestone in Dibrugarh’s journey to becoming Assam’s second capital,” Sarma said. He revealed that starting in 2027, one session of the Assam assembly will be held annually in Dibrugarh, further solidifying its importance.
Construction of the new assembly building will commence on January 25, 2024, he announced, with completion targeted within three years.
The chief minister also detailed broader urbanization initiatives, including plans for Tezpur and Silchar.
Tezpur will be developed as Assam’s cultural capital with the establishment of a Raj Bhavan, while Silchar will host a secretariat and the chief secretary’s office, aiming to bridge administrative gaps between Barak Valley and Guwahati.
Sarma recalled his government’s earlier efforts, noting the inauguration of Assam’s first CM secretariat outside Guwahati in Dibrugarh last year. “This city will become an important hub in India, representing growth, governance, and progress,” he stated.
Reflecting on India’s Constitution, Sarma shared a historical anecdote about Babasaheb Ambedkar’s inclusion in the Constitution Drafting Committee. Despite initial resistance from leaders like Pandit Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi’s support for Ambedkar’s intellectual capabilities ensured his vital role. “Ambedkar’s fight against untouchability embodied the soul of India, inspiring generations and establishing the foundation of an open society through Article 17,” Sarma said.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding democratic values, vowing to avoid the darkness of Emergency and to contribute to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
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