Guwahati, 13th May: This morning, the world bid farewell to a stalwart in the fight against injustice, as renowned human rights activist and Padma Shri awardee, Birubala Rabha, breathed her last at approximately 9:23 am while undergoing treatment at the State Cancer Institute in Guwahati.
Birubala Rabha’s unwavering commitment to combating the scourge of witch-hunting earned her widespread acclaim and reverence. The Assam Government, acknowledging her invaluable contributions to society, had pledged to cover the expenses for her medical care, a gesture reflective of the profound impact she had made on countless lives.
The decision to extend support for Rabha’s treatment was announced by Assam Cabinet Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary, following his visit to the State Cancer Institute to assess her health last Saturday. Rabha, battling cancer in its advanced third stage, had been admitted to the institute on April 22, 2024.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed deep sorrow at Rabha’s passing, taking to social media to pay tribute to her remarkable legacy. “I am deeply distressed to learn about the passing away of Padma Shri Smt Birubala Rabha,” he stated, highlighting her tireless efforts to combat social evils and uplift the marginalized. Sarma emphasized Rabha’s indomitable spirit and unwavering courage in the face of adversity, underscoring her enduring impact on Assam’s social fabric.
Despite initial signs of improvement in Rabha’s condition on May 4, following her transfer to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), her health subsequently deteriorated, culminating in her demise today.
Birubala Rabha’s legacy transcends her battle with cancer. As the driving force behind extensive campaigns against witch-hunting, she played a pivotal role in the enactment of the Prevention of and Protection from Witch Hunting Act, 2015, by the Assam Government. Through her organization, Mission Birubala, Rabha continued to advocate tirelessly against the grave dangers of witch-hunting, ensuring that her legacy of compassion and activism endures, even in her absence.