Billboards Across Silchar Ignites Call for Separate Barak; BDF Leading the Charge

In a bold move that has captured the attention of Silchar residents, the town is now adorned with billboards conveying a distinct message from the Barak Democratic Front (BDF). These billboards, instead of showcasing traditional advertisements, serve as a platform for the BDF to call for the establishment of a separate state for Barak Valley. The message asserts that Barak Valley has been neglected by the state government, hindering its development and prosperity.

The BDF alleges that Barak Valley’s grievances stem from being historically detached from Assam, with the British joining Barak with Assam. The billboards demand separation, asserting it as the sole solution to the various issues faced by Barak Valley residents. Pradeep Dutta Roy, a representative of BDF, reveals that the funding for these billboards comes directly from the citizens of Silchar as the workers of BDF collected donation from the public who shared their vision, emphasizing the grassroots support behind their cause.

Roy explains that the campaign aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by Barak Valley and garner public support. He highlights Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s statement that he would not object if the people of Barak Valley sought a separate state, prompting the BDF to intensify its efforts to spread awareness.

The billboards draw attention to the discrepancy between promises and actions, citing the construction of Asia’s largest detention camp in Goalpara despite assurances from the Prime Minister to dismantle such facilities. Roy questions the treatment of individuals in these camps, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC). He expresses concerns about the impact of NRC on both Hindus and Muslims in Barak Valley, emphasizing the need for a fair and transparent process.

Addressing concerns over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), BDF representative Pradeep Dutta Roy asserts that it was exploited for political gains, securing votes without actual implementation to aid Bengalis. Expressing skepticism about the government’s intentions, he highlights the pressing issue of unemployment, revealing that out of the promised 1 lakh jobs, only 212 individuals from Barak Valley secured employment. Roy contends that the actual figure should have reached a minimum of 15,000, emphasizing the need for tangible solutions to address the region’s employment challenges.

In his remarks, Pradeep Dutta Roy draws attention to the announcement of five medical colleges in Assam. While four of them have been successfully constructed and classes are in session, he highlights the stark contrast with Karimganj Medical College, emphasizing that it remains a mere concept on paper, lacking a tangible presence in reality.

Outlining the potential viability of Barak Valley as an independent state, Pradeep Dutta Roy enumerates key strengths. He underscores the presence of 125 tea gardens, contributing significantly to Barak Valley’s economic landscape. Roy reveals that Barak Valley generates a substantial revenue of 3 thousand crores, with Cachar being a pivotal contributor to Assam’s highest land revenue. Additionally, he cites the Central Petroleum Minister’s acknowledgment of abundant gas and oil resources in Barak Valley, suggesting the potential for exportation. Roy emphasizes that these valuable assets can not only be harnessed but also effectively utilized for the region’s growth and prosperity.

Continuing to underscore the urgency of their separation demand, Pradeep Dutta Roy stresses that it stands as a final recourse to foster development in Barak Valley and enhance the lives of its residents. He highlights proactive steps taken, including press conferences held in Delhi and Kolkata and the submission of memorandums to key figures such as the Prime Minister, President, and Home Minister. Expressing optimism, Roy anticipates a positive response to their pleas. Moreover, he points out growing public support and responds to the government’s call for validation by expressing willingness to demonstrate it through a referendum, provided the government grants permission.