HT Correspondent
Tezpur, Sept 29: Tezpur University organised a programme on ‘The Role of Tribal Leaders in India’s Freedom Struggle’ on Thursday, under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, at the Council Hall of the University. S. P. Meena deputy director, National Commission for Schedule Tribes (NCST), formally inaugurated the event by illuminating the ceremonial lamp. In his inaugural speech he introduced the NCST and spoke in detail about the Rashtriya Janajati Aayog and the role of NCST in upgrading the lives of the SC/ST community.
Addressing the august gathering vice-chancellor of the University, Prof. Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya, highlighted the importance of tribal leaders in the Indian freedom struggle mentioning the names of Northeastern freedom fighters from the SC/ST community such as Tirot Singh, Tagan Sangma and Thangal General.
The programme started with the welcome note by Dr. Rajeev Kumar Doley, administrative convenor of the programme was graced by Prof. Kedilezo Kikhi, Chair Professor, Dr. Ambedkar Chair, Tezpur University, Dr. Biren Das, registrar of the University, Nitya Ranjan Doley from Kalyan Ashram, Assam among others.
Attending the event as special speaker, Prof. Kedilezo Kikhi, described in detail how the mainstream society marginalised the tribal community and they look at the ‘Adivasis’ as an exotic and out-world community. Nitya Ranjan Doley and Montu Koharam from the Kalyan Ashram, Assam also spoke on the event.
Dr. Debojit Boro, educational convenor of the programme, subsequently offered vote of thanks. An informative video on the NCST and the role tribal leaders played in the Indian freedom struggle was also presented during the programme while a photo exhibition was also organised outside the Council Hall to showcase lesser known tribal freedom fighters of India.