Assam BJP state president Dilip Saikia visits Barpeta Satra, unveils major development plans for religious sites

BJP's newly appointed State President, Dilip Saikia, commenced his tenure with an official visit to the historic Barpeta Satra on Sunday. This visit, his first since assuming office, was marked by prayers, cultural engagement, and the announcement of significant development projects aimed at enhancing religious sites across Assam.

Saikia began his visit by offering prayers at the entrance hall of the Barpeta Satra, followed by a detailed tour of the Manikut Griha and the Kirtan Ghar. Speaking to the gathered audience, Saikia emphasized the Assam government's commitment to preserving and developing the state's rich religious and cultural heritage. He highlighted the government’s proactive steps towards improving the infrastructure of Satras, Naamghars, and other religious institutions.

One of the key announcements during his visit was the allocation of financial assistance to approximately 50,000 religious worship sites, including Naamghars, under the Assam Darshan scheme in the upcoming budget. Saikia explained that this initiative aims to enhance the accessibility and facilities of these sites, fostering a better experience for devotees and preserving the cultural sanctity of these locations.

In addition, Saikia outlined the government’s focused efforts on the development of Barpeta Satra, likening these to similar projects in other significant sites such as Bordowa. He underscored the importance of honoring the legacy of two revered saints who spent considerable time in Barpeta, reaffirming the government’s commitment to preserving their contributions through sustained development efforts.

A noteworthy announcement was the provision of a Bolero vehicle for the Burha Sattriya and Deka Sattriya of Barpeta Satra. This vehicle is intended to facilitate the mobility of the Satra’s spiritual leaders and promote the spread of Sattriya culture and religious practices, thereby enhancing the outreach of these traditions.

Earlier in the day, Saikia participated in the "Mann Ki Baat" program near the Satra. During the event, he commended the Prime Minister’s initiative to recognize unsung heroes contributing to societal and national development. He highlighted the Prime Minister’s mention of 'Haathi Bandhu' in Nagaon, an initiative addressing human-elephant conflict, praising it as a model of inspiration for conservation and community engagement.

Several prominent leaders accompanied Saikia during his visit, including Bhawanipur MLA Phanidhar Talukdar, newly appointed Barpeta district BJP president Mahendra Das, outgoing president Anil Kumar Das, and co-in-charge Bibhuti Bhushan Barthakur. A large contingent of party workers was also present, reflecting the significance of the visit and the announcements made.

Concluding his visit, Saikia expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and the opportunity to engage with Barpeta Satra’s spiritual and cultural heritage. He called for public support to ensure the successful implementation of the government’s development initiatives, which aim to preserve and promote Assam’s rich religious and cultural legacy for future generations.