Demand for separate Bodoland state revived in Assam’s Kokrajhar

Discussions on the long-standing demand for a separate Bodoland state resurfaced on May 28 during a meeting held at the Bodoland Guest House in Assam’s Kokrajhar district under the initiative of the Bodo National Students Union (BoNSU).

 

The meeting focused on demands for smaller states across the country and was attended by Chief Convener of the Smaller State Coordination Committee Sanjay Thulung, BoNSU president Banjit Manjil Basumatary, Working President of the Bodoland Janajati Surukha Manch Daorao Deshrep Narzary, along with representatives from several organisations including the All BTAD Gaonburah Association, former NDFB members, former Volunteer Force members and the All Bodo Senior Citizens’ Forum.

 

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Sanjay Thulung said organisations advocating for smaller states would work together again to intensify their movements for separate statehood demands. He stated that discussions with the Central Government would be initiated regarding the issue and added that democratic movements could be launched again if necessary.

 

BoNSU president Banjit Manjil Basumatary said the organisation would continue to pursue the demand for a separate Bodoland state. He claimed that sections of the Bodo community remain dissatisfied with earlier agreements related to the BAC, BTC and BTR arrangements.

 

He further stated that the demand for separate statehood would continue and that stronger initiatives may be taken in the future.

 

According to BoNSU, the meeting on May 28 marked the first phase of discussions on the issue.