Guwahati, Dec 9 (NationPress) In a poignant reference to the martyrs of the Assam agitation, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma sharply criticized the Congress party on Tuesday, claiming that the misrule of the Congress government in the state resulted in the deaths of over 850 youths.

Sarma emphasized that these young individuals were victims of “state brutality”, suffering for advocating a legitimate demand for a “safe and secure Assam”.

“These youths sacrificed their lives for a cause: demanding that illegal immigrants be deported to make Assam a safer place. Tragically, more than 850 lives were lost due to the violence perpetrated by the state administration when Congress was in power at both the Centre and the state. The Congress government bears full responsibility for the loss of lives during the Assam agitation,” the Chief Minister stated during a press briefing.

As the state government prepares to inaugurate the Swahid Smarak in Guwahati on Wednesday, the Chief Minister asserted that the current administration has rectified a “historical injustice” by establishing a permanent memorial for the martyrs in the city.

Sarma noted that for years, successive governments neglected to honor the martyrs, who played a pivotal role in shaping modern Assam and preserving its cultural identity. “Their only fault was calling for an end to unchecked infiltration. For decades, Assam’s bravehearts were denied the recognition they rightfully deserved,” he commented.

The newly erected Swahid Smarak, situated in the city’s central area, is designed as a place for collective remembrance. The memorial includes inscriptions dedicated to the agitators and exhibits detailing the history of the Assam Movement from 1979 to 1985.

Officials indicated that the monument serves not only as a tribute but also as an educational resource for future generations. Swahid Divas, observed on December 10, honors the first martyr, Khargeswar Talukdar, whose death in 1979 sparked the agitation led by the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU).

Over the years, this day has become a significant political symbol for various parties, particularly the BJP, which has consistently highlighted the issue of illegal immigration in its campaign messages.

Reinforcing his government’s commitment to safeguarding Assam’s “land, language and culture,” CM Sarma stated that the memorial serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made to protect the state’s demographic integrity. “The Swahid Smarak will stand as a lasting tribute to their ultimate sacrifice. Assam will always be grateful,” he concluded.