GUWAHATI, Dec 21 : Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday became emotional as Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the martyrs of the historic Assam Movement at the Swahid Smarak Kshetra in Guwahati, a moment that resonated deeply with people across the state.
The Prime Minister offered floral tributes and garlanded the bust of Khargeswar Talukdar, the first martyr of the six-year-long anti-foreigner agitation that began in 1979, remembering the sacrifices made to protect Assam’s identity, culture and rights.
The Swahid Smarak Kshetra, dedicated to the 860 martyrs of the Assam Movement, stands as a powerful symbol of the state’s long and painful struggle. During his visit, Modi also toured the martyrs’ gallery, where busts of all those who laid down their lives have been installed, paying respect to each martyr. Many described the Prime Minister’s presence at the memorial as a heartfelt acknowledgement of Assam’s turbulent past and the heavy price paid by its people.
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Reacting to the homage, Chief Minister Sarma described the moment as deeply emotional, recalling what he termed the “dark days” in Assam’s history. He alleged that during earlier regimes, particularly under the Congress, the state suffered due to unchecked illegal infiltration, violence against indigenous communities and prolonged economic decline, pushing Assam into years of instability and uncertainty.
Drawing a sharp contrast with the present scenario, Sarma said Assam is now witnessing an era of peace, development and renewed confidence. He said people across the state are celebrating progress, while the Prime Minister has shown rare sensitivity towards Assam’s history by personally honouring the martyrs and recognising their role in safeguarding the state’s cultural identity.
The Chief Minister further said that Modi’s sustained focus on Assam reflects an unprecedented commitment to the region, asserting that the Prime Minister has invested more time and resources in the state’s development than any of his predecessors. Crediting the “double engine” government at the Centre and in Assam, Sarma said the state is moving on an accelerated path of growth.
Calling it an Assam renaissance, Sarma said the state is steadily progressing towards peace, prosperity and stability, guided by the sacrifices of the martyrs of the Assam Movement.
