Assam: Bodo students stage massive torch rally over Peace Accord delay

A state-wide mobilisation by the All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) on December 11 drew thousands to the streets, with the organisation warning that delays in implementing the 2020 Bodo Peace Accord risk reigniting the Bodoland movement.

 

The demonstration, beginning at Kokrajhar Higher Secondary and Multipurpose Playground before moving through the town and ending at Bodofa Children’s Park, centred on clauses of the Accord that remain unfulfilled nearly five years after its signing.

 

Participants chanted for constitutional changes promised under the pact, including amendments to Article 280 and the Sixth Schedule—issues raised again during the 2025 Winter Session of Parliament as part of discussions on the 125th Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

 

ABSU leaders said the government must act on commitments that, they argue, are essential for long-term stability in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR). Key demands reiterated during the march included:

1. Scheduled Tribe status for Bodo–Kachari communities in Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao
2. Full recognition of BKWAC with village notification, boundary demarcation and elections
3. Provincialisation of educational institutions in BTR and Bodo-medium schools outside it
4. Inclusion of additional villages from Sonitpur, Biswanath and southern BTR areas
5. Land rights for tribal communities under the Forest Rights Act 2006
6. Release of a Rs 1,500-crore special development package
7. Release of incarcerated ex-NDFB cadres and withdrawal of pending cases

 

The organisation submitted a memorandum to the Union Home Minister and Assam’s Chief Minister, urging immediate steps to close the gaps in implementation.

 

ABSU Central Committee vice-president Khwrwmdao Wary told the gathering that continued inaction would leave the group with “no option” but to revive the Bodoland agitation, signalling a potential escalation if the accord remains stalled.