Assam: Tai-Ahom Activists Strip Naked to Protest Citizenship Bill

Dibrugarh, December 9, 2019:

In a shocking display of angst, three members of the Tai Ahom Yuva Parishad (TAYV) stripped off their clothing as a mark of protest against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, at Thana Chariali in Dibrugarh district of Assam.

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Raising rebellious cries, the three youths, who were flanked by other members of the of their organization, marched through the streets of Dibrugarh. Decrying the current administration and the Assam Chief Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, the three youths demanded the immediate withdrawal of the contentious Bill, which has been introduced in the Lok Sabha yet again.

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Meanwhile, the Bill, which is seen as "unconstitutional" and "immoral" by the detractors, is seen as an attempt by the Northeastern people to grant refuge to non-Muslim migrants from Bangladesh.

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In the state of Assam, which will not be safeguarded by the Bill as it it does not have any special provisions, the protests have reached fever-pitch. Organizations like the KMSS, AJYCP, AASU, etc, have been opposing the Bill tooth-and-nail. Students of Universities across the state have also been opposing the Bill, and have demanded its immediate withdrawal. It is to be mentioned here that the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is being vehemently opposed by the civil societies, student bodies, and indigenous organizations.

Meanwhile, the Bill has been tabled by Amit Shah in the Lower House with an overwhelming 293 votes. Only 82 votes were counted against its re-introduction.

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