‘Districts like Bongaigaon, Dhubri must have DCs from minority community’: Rejaul Karim

Former president of the All Assam Minority Students’ Union (AAMSU), Rejaul Karim Sarkar, on January 15 called for greater representation of minorities in top administrative positions, asserting that districts like Bongaigaon and Dhubri should have Deputy Commissioners from the minority community. 

He was addressing a cultural programme organised at the Tapattary High School playground in Bongaigaon district by the Tapattary Regional Youth Club.

The programme was held in the minority-dominated Tapattary area and witnessed the participation of a large number of local residents and youth. Alongside cultural performances, the event also became a platform for strong political and social messaging focused on representation, education and community rights.

In his address, Sarkar delivered a forceful speech emphasising that education is the most critical tool for the empowerment of minority communities. Urging parents to make education their highest priority, he said economic hardship should not become an excuse for denying children educational opportunities. 

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“If required, sell your kidney but make sure to educate your children, be it a boy or a girl, so that tomorrow they can take up government positions,” he said, drawing sharp reactions and applause from the audience.

Sarkar further stated that administrative leadership in districts with a significant minority population should reflect the demographic reality of those regions. He argued that local representation at the level of Deputy Commissioner would help address long-standing grievances and ensure more inclusive governance.

Speaking on issues of dignity and rights, the former AAMSU president warned against any form of intimidation or attempts to undermine the minority community. He said any effort to threaten or point fingers at the community would be firmly resisted. 

The programme concluded with cultural performances, but Sarkar’s statements remained the central focus of the gathering, highlighting ongoing debates around education, administrative representation and the socio-political challenges.