Guwahati, December 10 (NationPress) As the enchanting notes of Bhupen Hazarika’s classic song ‘Swahid Pranamu Tumak’ filled the atmosphere, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the Swahid Smarak Kshetra in Paschim Boragaon, Guwahati, commemorating Swahid Divas, a day dedicated to honoring the martyrs of the Assam agitation.

The Smarak Kshetra serves as a profound tribute to the brave sons and daughters of Assam who sacrificed their lives to safeguard the state's identity.

Sarma expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the martyrs at the Swahid Pranam Jyoti and engaged with the families of these heroes.

During his address, Chief Minister Sarma highlighted the significant role of the historic Assam Movement, which aimed to expel foreigners during a turbulent period for the state.

This movement has been pivotal in Assam's history for decades, showcasing the patriotism and sacrifices made by its people, as they fought to preserve their identity, pride, language, culture, and heritage.

Each martyr who laid down their life for Assam's cause remains honored, and their legacy continues to inspire.

“At that time, the people of Assam were determined not to allow elections until the names of foreign nationals were purged from the electoral rolls. They called for all political parties and candidates to refrain from participating,” he remarked.

On this sacred Swahid Divas, the people of Assam reflect on the sacrifices made by the martyrs of the Assam Movement with deep reverence and resolve.

The Chief Minister noted that the construction of the Swahid Smarak Kshetra began on December 10, 2019. This memorial, spanning 150 bighas of land, was created with an investment of ₹170 crores.

Sarma emphasized that this year’s observance of Swahid Divas holds special significance. He pointed out that despite the passage of time since the Assam Movement, people still face insecurity and new threats to their land and identity.

Assamese citizens have felt increasingly unsafe in their own state. Sarma stated, “The inability to fully implement the provisions of the Assam Accord has left the populace vulnerable. Illegal immigrants have encroached upon land belonging to namghars and satra. Even the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardev at Bardowa has not been spared. They have infiltrated Kaziranga, hunting rhinos indiscriminately and attempting to undermine the pride of the Assamese people. Our cultural heritage has been under attack, economic independence targeted, and even our women have faced assaults.”

These occurrences have instilled despair in the hearts of the citizens.

He observed that some individuals have capitulated to outsiders under the guise of communal harmony, resulting in a shadow of despair hanging over the state.