Assam: Severe drinking water crisis in Barpeta Lok Sabha constituency sparks unrest

In Assam, a severe drinking water crisis has led to unrest among the villagers of the Barpeta Lok Sabha constituency. 

The villagers, affected by the scarcity, have threatened to boycott the upcoming polls if the issue is not addressed. 

The situation has highlighted the urgent need for sustainable water management solutions in the region.

Residents of Ravapara village in Abhayapuri, Bongaigaon district under Barpeta Lok Sabha constituency, are facing a severe shortage of drinking water. 

Despite 77 years of Independence, the village people of Ravapara, part of Abhayapuri's Badigaon panchayat, are still bereft of their fundamental right to clean water. 

Although a system is in place to provide potable water, it has failed to benefit the locals. 

Also Read: Barpeta Lok Sabha Constituency: Know your candidates, population, polling percentage, last election results

The village's only hand pump has been crowded with people since morning, as it is the only source of water for about 300-400 people from 50-60 families. 

The lack of water has affected daily activities such as washing clothes and bathing for the past 3-4 months. 

The villagers have urged the state's chief minister to intervene and urgently arrange for water supply in the area.

"We request the chief minister to urgently look into the matter or the villagers will be forced to boycott the upcoming Lok Sabha elections," said on of the locals.

Barpeta, nestled in the northeastern state of Assam, stands out as a significant constituency and a key player in Assam politics among the 14 Lok Sabha constituencies of the state. Known for its diverse demographic and historical significance, Barpeta has long been a bastion of political influence. Barpeta will be voting in the third phase of the elections scheduled to be held on May 7, 2024. 

The Barpeta Parliamentary constituency boasts a population of 1,693,622, with a gender distribution of 867,004 males and 826,618 females. A testament to its commitment to education, the constituency records a total literacy rate of 897,058, with 499,038 males and 398,020 females being literate, albeit with a notable gender gap.

As Barpeta braces for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, a staggering 19,83,311 voters are poised to shape the political landscape of the region. 

The constituency comprises ten segments, including Abhayapuri, Bongaigaon, and Nalbari, each with its distinct voter demographics and electoral significance.

As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections loom, notable candidates like Phani Bhusan Choudhury (AGP), Deep Bayan (Congress), Manoranjan Talukdar (CPIM), and Abdul Kalam Azad (TMC) gear up for a challenging electoral battle, reflecting the evolving political dynamics in Barpeta.