HT Correspondent
KOKRAJHAR, Nov 11: Residents of the greater Kali Pukhuri area, predominantly inhabited by the Koch-Rajbongshi community, staged a protest over what they allege is a political conspiracy to halt the construction of a road and permanent bridge over the Champabati River connecting parts of Kokrajhar district.
The protest took place at Kali Pukhuri Bazaar crossroads on Tuesday, with locals demanding the completion of the road and bridge to improve connectivity.
During the 2024 Lok Sabha and 2025 BTC election campaigns, Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma had promised construction of the Balajan–Basugaon road under the “BB Road – Asom Mala” project. A tender notice was issued on October 14, with submission dates from October 22 to November 7. However, the tender process scheduled to conclude on November 8 was suddenly cancelled, sparking outrage.
The road is crucial for access to Kokrajhar Medical College, Bodoland University, Kokrajhar University, banks and markets. Residents allege political motives behind the cancellation and warned that if construction is not resumed, the BJP could face backlash in the 2026 Assembly elections.






