“If there is any community in the State which is exploited and deprived economically and socio-politically, it is none other than the Adivasi community.” This was observed by Rihon Daimari, State Food and Civil Supply and PHE Minister at Orangajuli market complex ground in Udalguri on Tuesday. Daimari attended the open session as chief guest marking the killings of eight protesters who died of bullet wounds during a 12-hour strike to demand ST status for Adivasis, way back in July 25, 2003.
Daimari said that the sacrifice of those eight protesters would be an inspiration for generations to come. Their sacrifice will not go in vain. The Adivasi community will reap its fruits, he said. Referring to the long-pending issue of ST status to Adivasi people of the State, Daimari said, “BPF has always supported the demand for ST status to Adivasis. Hagrama Mohilary has wholeheartedly supported the issue for the cause of Adivasis,” said Daimari.
Lauding the All Adivasi Students’ Association of Assam (AASAA) for its efforts in uplift of the Adivasi community, he said, “AASAA has always raised its voice and worked for the cause of the Adivasi people.”
Referring to the inadequate healthcare facilities and poor education scenario in tea gardens of the State, Daimari stated that the government welfare policies could not reach people living in tea gardens due to the detrimental policies of tea garden management. The schools in tea gardens could not be undertaken by the government due to the policies of tea garden management.
He further stated that Adivasis should empower themselves with the tool of education. He emphasized on need of education and self-sustainability through change in work culture. He also stated that potable drinking water schemes would be introduced in tea garden areas soon. He also stressed on the importance of sanitation and hygiene in tea garden areas.
On behalf of AASAA, Daimari also extended financial aid to the kin of the martyrs. Talking on the sidelines of the programme, Pradeep Na,g president AASAA CEC, said that 14 years had passed but justice was yet to be delivered to the family of the martyrs. The kins of the martyrs have been deprived of government compensations till date. The programme was organized by All Adivasi Students’ Association (AASAA) Udalguri district committee, in collaboration with Garujhar A/C. Earlier, the day started with the hoisting of the flag by Suresh Tanti, MCLA, 33 No. Nonai Serphang Constituency followed by floral tribute to martyrs plantation a sapling, a procession to mark the event and felicitation of 80 meritorious students.
The programme was also attended by Shyam Sundi, EM BTC, Kamali Basumatari, MLA Panery, among AASAA activists from various corners of the State.
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