HT Correspondent
JORHAT, Feb 19: The Asam Sahitya Sabha has adopted a policy of ‘One Person, One Post’ and 33 per cent reservation for women in its new executive committee for the 2025-27 term.
Addressing newspersons at the Danbir Radha Kanta Handique Bhawan within the premises of the Sabha’s central office here on Tuesday, newly elected Sabha president Dr Basanta Kumar Goswami stated that, as part of a series of reforms initiated by the premier literary organisation of the state, a policy of ‘One Person, One Post’ has been implemented for the 2025-27 executive committee.
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He explained that the new policy aims to bring more transparency and inclusivity to the activities of the literary body. Elaborating on the decision, Dr. Goswami stated that under this policy, no individual would be allotted more than one post within the Sabha, and members of the same family would not be able to hold multiple posts.
Further, the Sabha president highlighted another significant reform: the reservation of 33 per cent of seats for women in the new executive committee. He noted that these initiatives stem from resolutions adopted on February 5 during the five-day 77th biennial conference of the Sabha held at Pathsala in Bajali district. He expressed confidence that the reservation policy would strengthen gender inclusivity and promote a more balanced and diverse representation.
“The 33 per cent reservation for women is expected to provide them with a stronger voice in the Sabha’s decision-making process,” observed Goswami, a well-known linguist and former general secretary of the Sabha.
He also informed that Sabha members who previously held executive committee posts but failed to submit accounts for functions within 25 days of their conclusion have not been appointed to any position in the new executive committee.
Additionally, members of earlier executive committees who were found to be underperforming or inactive have not been included in the new committee. Goswami added that individuals facing allegations of financial irregularities or other charges under investigation have also been excluded from the new executive committee.
Announcing another key decision, Goswami stated that office secretaries have been appointed for all branches across the state, with each branch secretary now being from the district where the branch is located. Furthermore, individuals holding key positions—such as president, vice-president, or secretary—of any community, tribal, or political organisation have not been included in the new executive committee. However, general members of such bodies are not barred from being part of the committee.
Regarding executive meetings for the 2025-27 term, he said they would be conducted in a more streamlined manner, with all future meetings being held for a single day instead of the previous two-day format.
He further stated that another reform is the discontinuation of customary gifts such as gamusas or other items for executive members. Instead, books will be presented as tokens of appreciation, reflecting a modern approach to the Sabha’s traditions.
Goswami also announced the names of secretaries appointed to the Sabha’s branch offices across Assam. He further stated that the first executive meeting would be held on March 9 at the Sabha’s central office here.
