BJP Abandons Plans for 'Bihar Diwas' Celebration in Tinsukia, Assam
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Synopsis
The BJP has canceled its 'Bihar Diwas' celebration in Tinsukia, Assam, due to protests from regional parties and community groups. This decision was made to respect local sentiments and avoid communal tensions. The Chief Minister criticized the opposition, emphasizing the need for unity.
Key Takeaways
- BJP cancels 'Bihar Diwas' in Tinsukia.
- Local sentiments and protests were key factors in the decision.
- Celebrations will continue in other parts of Assam.
- Chief Minister warns against communal tensions.
- Upcoming elections may influence political decisions.
Guwahati, March 20 (NationPress) In light of protests from various regional political factions, community organizations, and the militant group United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent), the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has decided to cancel its plans to celebrate 'Bihar Diwas' in Tinsukia district, Assam, scheduled for March 22, as confirmed by a senior party official on Thursday.
The State BJP President, Dilip Saikia, stated that the party opted to forgo the celebration in Tinsukia to respect local feelings.
Saikia, who also represents the Darrang-Udalguri parliamentary constituency in the Lok Sabha, noted that various states, such as Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Nagaland, observe 'Assam Diwas' on December 2 each year.
"The Bihar Diwas was intended to be commemorated as 'Sneh Milan Utsav' (festival of affection and unity) under the BJP's 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' initiative aimed at promoting harmony and coexistence across the nation. We have resolved not to proceed with the Bihar Diwas in Tinsukia on March 22 after receiving opposition from certain community segments," the BJP official relayed to the press.
Nonetheless, he mentioned that the celebration would take place in other areas of Assam.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma characterized the resistance to the Bihar Diwas as indicative of communal animosity.
He expressed that if 'Assam Day' can be celebrated in other states, a similar acknowledgment should occur in Assam.
"Such animosity and bias could deter investors," CM Sarma cautioned, reminding the public of the potential repercussions this mentality could have on Assamese individuals studying, working, and residing in various regions of the country.
The ULFA (I), led by Paresh Baruah, previously warned on Wednesday that dire consequences would follow if organizers proceeded with the 'Bihar Diwas' in Tinsukia, labeling it as a representation of the 'Indian occupational forces'.
In response, local political entities and indigenous populations, including the Ahoms and Morans, have also voiced their disapproval of the Bihar Diwas celebration.
Raijor Dal leader and party MLA Akhil Gogoi criticized the BJP for attempting to hold the Bihar Diwas with the intention of appealing to Hindi-speaking voters in Assam.
Another regional party, the Assam Jatiya Parishad, condemned the BJP for disrespecting the Assamese people with its strategy to appease individuals from Bihar.
Elections for the 126-member Assam Assembly are slated for April-May 2026.
