HT Correspondent
KOKRAJHAR, June 28: The 28th death anniversary of Bir Chilagang Basumatary, the founder chairman of the now-defunct Bodo Liberation Tigers (BLT), was observed on Saturday at his burial site, Bir Chilagang Puri, located in Bongshigaon near Dotma in Kokrajhar district.
Bir Chilagang Basumatary, a key figure in the Bodo community’s struggle for a separate Bodoland within the framework of the Indian Constitution, passed away on June 28, 1997, following a prolonged illness.
Related Posts:
He is survived by his wife, two sons, and a daughter.
The commemoration was organised by the Bir Chilagang Basumatary Trust in collaboration with local citizens to honour the contributions and sacrifices of the late leader for the welfare and advancement of the Bodo community.
People from various organisations, political affiliations, and local residents gathered at the burial site to offer floral tributes and pay their respects.
Among those present at the solemn occasion were the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), Pramod Boro; former BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary; Lok Sabha MP Joyanta Basumatary; MLAs Lawrence Islary and Jiron Basumatary; ABSU Vice President Khwrwmdao Wary; and several other dignitaries.
Ramani Basumatary, widow of the late leader, led the floral tributes, joined by leaders from diverse organisations across communities.
In his address, CEM Pramod Boro described Bir Chilagang Basumatary as a visionary leader who devoted his life to the progress and upliftment of the Bodo community.
He emphasised Basumatary’s significant role in the Bodo nation-building process and his relentless pursuit of statehood for Bodoland within India.
He also referred to the late leader as a man of deep philosophy whose leadership was rooted in the well-being of the society.
Boro informed that the BTR government has taken steps to construct Bir Chilagang Basumatary Mini Stadiums across all 40 constituencies of the council.
Additionally, he mentioned the establishment of the Martyr Sujit Narzary Memorial Auditorium across the region and the implementation of various welfare initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the people.
Urging the community to remember and honour the contributions of such great individuals, Boro called for collective effort in continuing their legacy.
He underscored the unity within the Bodo community, noting that while political views may differ, the commitment to the welfare of the people remains unwavering.
He further highlighted the peace and harmony prevailing in the region since the signing of the Bodo Peace Accord, affirming that the government of BTR is dedicated to inclusive development and ensuring progress for all communities in the region.
