A two-day discussion forum titled “Assam, Politics, Identity, and Development After 1980” has commenced today at the Jirachang Achong in Diphu, organized by the Center for Tribal Studies and the Department of History at Assam University, Diphu Campus. The opening session of this national forum, which will see the participation of several professors from Assam and the northeastern region, was presided over by Professor S. Biswas, the Pro Vice Chancellor of Assam University, Diphu Campus. The welcome address was delivered by Professor P.B. Chanjik, head of the university’s Department of History.
Dr. Profulla Nath, an associate professor at the university, delivered a speech focusing on the main topic. Many distinguished professors participated in the program on the first day. Additionally, former minister Holiram Terang was present. At 4 PM, a roundtable meeting took place, where prominent political leaders Dr. Jayanta Rongpi, Holiram Terang, Uttam Bathari, and Devendra Medhi exchanged views with various professors and students. This discussion was facilitated by Kishore Kumar Kalita.
In a press conference regarding the discussion circle, Dr. Profulla Nath mentioned that the 1980s were marked as a significant decade for Assam. The foreign invasion led to the rise of extremist organizations in parallel with the Assam movement, and large-scale movements like the Bodoland and Karbi movements had a substantial impact on the state. He explained that the purpose of this special discussion circle is to enlighten newcomers about Assam’s development and identity after that period. Nath also indicated that professors, lawyers, leaders of the movements from that time, and current politicians would participate in the discussion.
The Vice-Chancellor of Assam University, Professor Biswas, expressed hope that this discussion forum will assist research students in understanding the environmental issues of Assam and the Northeast during the 1980s. He noted that after 1980, the Northeast witnessed significant political changes, a violent insurgency problem, foreign immigration movements, and the rise of ULFA, along with the subsequent formation of the SULFA group. He mentioned that the 1980s were a tumultuous time for Assam and the Northeast, but currently, he believes that the region, excluding Manipur, is experiencing peace and accelerated development. As an example of this development, the Vice-Chancellor pointed out various developmental projects being implemented in the Karbi Anglong district through both governmental and private sectors.
