Cachar BJP President Bimalendu Roy’s son Sujit Roy vows to continue the protest against delimitation; “Join the rally on July 6” he appeals

In a remarkable display of solidarity, the Barak bandh called by the Barak Democratic Front (BDF) and several other political parties resonated with the local population, resulting in closed shops, low attendance in educational institutions and minimal vehicular movement throughout the region. Amidst the widespread commotion caused by the bandh, one particular incident stood out, capturing the attention of many: the expulsion of Sujit Roy, son of Cachar BJP District President Bimalendu Roy, from his own home after his active participation in the anti-delimitation movement.

The movement gained traction after the announcement of a delimitation draft proposed by the Election Commission of India, which was met with opposition from various quarters. Seeking to voice their discontent, an organisation named “Forum for Democratic Rights Barak Valley” was formed at a hotel in Silchar on Sunday. Sujit Roy emerged as a prominent member of the organisation, expressing his concerns over the proposed delimitation and advocating for public resistance. The organisation called for a grand rally in Silchar on July 6 to protest against the reduction of assembly constituencies and the lack of geographical continuity among them.

However, Sujit Roy’s involvement in activities contradicting the views of the BJP leadership sparked disharmony within his family, as his father holds the position of BJP District President in Cachar. Unable to tolerate his son’s participation in movements conflicting with the party’s stance, Bimalendu Roy made the difficult decision to oust his own son from their home.

When approached by our correspondent, Sujit Roy clarified that he is not a member of BJP or any other political party. He asserted that his involvement in the anti-delimitation movement stemmed from his belief that as a responsible citizen, he had a duty to resist the proposed changes which went against the popular sentiment of the people. Roy explained that the “Forum for Democratic Rights Barak Valley” was established as a means to address concerns regarding the reduction of assembly constituencies and the lack of geographical continuity among them. He emphasised that their movement is not aimed at opposing seat reservations but rather at safeguarding the interests of the people of Barak Valley.

Despite his father’s disapproval and requests to cease his involvement, Sujit Roy remained resolute, choosing to fight against what he perceived as discrimination against Barak Valley for the greater interest of his community. He highlighted that the Election Commission itself had provided the opportunity to submit objections and suggestions in July regarding the delimitation. Roy emphasised that his actions should not be misconstrued as an attack on the BJP but rather as a manifestation of his commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of the people of Barak Valley. He resolved to speak more intensely for the people of Barak Valley in future also whenever they would be discriminated against and hit the streets to join protests.

Moreover, Roy revealed that there were individuals within the BJP who, while passively supportive of the movement, were unable to openly express their solidarity due to party obligations. “Today, I have been thrown out of my home, tomorrow I will sit at the road, and if needed, will shed blood, but won’t stop opposing the existing delimitation,” concludes Sujit Roy.