Is the Assam Government Truly Committed to Empowering the Koch Rajbongshi Community?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Government's commitment to the Koch Rajbongshi community is evident through various initiatives.
- Significant funding is allocated for socio-economic and educational projects.
- Legal relief provided by withdrawing pending cases against community members.
- Reservation of seats in higher education institutes ensures better access for students.
- Efforts to preserve cultural heritage while promoting inclusive growth.
Guwahati, Aug 12 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday reiterated his administration's dedication to enhancing the welfare of the Koch Rajbongshi community through effective initiatives focused on boosting educational and socio-economic opportunities, while also safeguarding the community’s cultural heritage.
In a message posted on X, Sarma emphasized that his government is committed to “empowering Assam’s Koch Rajbongshi community with tangible actions, not just rhetoric,” affirming the administration's resolve to work “for the people and by the people.”
He noted a series of measures implemented over the past four years to fortify the community’s role within the state's social and economic landscape.
One of the notable initiatives includes the imminent installation of a magnificent statue of Bir Chilarai - the esteemed 16th-century Koch general - in Bongaigaon.
The Chief Minister remarked that this project would serve as a perpetual homage to the valor and heritage of the Koch Rajbongshi people, igniting inspiration for future generations.
In a significant legal advancement for the community, the state government has retracted 28,000 pending cases against Koch Rajbongshi individuals from the Foreigners’ Tribunals.
According to Sarma, this action reflects the administration’s commitment to addressing long-standing issues and eliminating unnecessary legal obstacles faced by community members.
From a developmental perspective, the government has allocated Rs 80.10 crore for specialized projects designed to uplift the socio-economic status of the community.
The Chief Minister stated that these funds would be directed towards initiatives encompassing infrastructure, skill development, and cultural preservation.
To improve access to higher education, the state has introduced specific reservations for Koch Rajbongshi students - allocating 22 seats in 12 universities, 58 seats in polytechnic institutes, and 22 seats in engineering colleges.
Sarma asserted that these initiatives aim to ensure that students from the community have enhanced opportunities to pursue technical, professional, and academic careers.
The Chief Minister emphasized that these interventions are part of a comprehensive vision to protect Assam’s rich cultural identity while promoting inclusive growth, stating that the government’s approach balances heritage preservation with future-oriented development.