139-year-old British-era inspection bungalow in Assam's Silghat draws attention on Independence Day

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day, a 139-year-old British-era inspection bungalow at Silghat in Assam’s Kaliabor has once again drawn attention for its deep historical significance.

 

Built by the British in 1887, the historic inspection bungalow is closely associated with India’s freedom movement. In August 1921, Mahatma Gandhi travelled from Tezpur to Silghat by boat across the Brahmaputra and stayed at the bungalow, where he is said to have worked on strategies to strengthen the freedom movement across central Assam.

 

The historic building has also hosted several prominent national and regional figures, including Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri and Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha.

 

The bungalow stands as a reminder of the period when the freedom movement was gaining momentum across Assam. Gandhi’s visit to Silghat in 1921 is particularly remembered for its role in encouraging the movement in the region.

 

The historic structure is currently under the Assam Public Works Department (Rural Roads) and is being maintained as an inspection bungalow. However, locals and heritage-conscious residents have expressed concern over its alleged neglect and lack of proper preservation.

 

Residents of Kaliabor have urged the authorities to take immediate steps to conserve the historic building and give it due recognition as an important heritage site associated with Assam’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle.

 

They believe that preserving the bungalow would not only protect a significant chapter of history but also provide future generations with a tangible link to the freedom movement and the leaders who shaped the nation's journey to independence.