Along with the rest of the state, Dibrugarh on Wednesday observed Swahid Divas with solemn reverence and deep respect, honouring the 855 martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the historic Assam Movement (Asom Andolan) between 1979 and 1985.
The main district event was held at the Chowkidingee playground, where political leaders, district administrators, and hundreds of citizens gathered to pay their heartfelt homage. Dignitaries present included Assam Power Minister and Dibrugarh MLA Prasanta Phukan, Lahowal MLA Punakon Baruah, District Commissioner Bikram Kairi, Dibrugarh Mayor Saikat Patra, Deputy Mayor Ujjal Phukon, and Assam Tourism Development Council Chairman Rituparna Baruah. Floral tributes were offered at the memorial site.
Swahid Divas, observed annually on December 10, marks the day the first martyr of the movement, Khargeswar Talukdar, attained martyrdom in 1979.
Addressing the gathering, Dibrugarh MLA Prasanta Phukan spoke emotionally about the debt the state owes to the martyrs. “The Assam Movement was a fight for existence, not just a political protest. The 855 martyrs laid down their lives so that the identity and culture of Aai Asomi (Mother Assam) could be preserved. On this day, we not only honour their memory but reaffirm our resolve to uphold the ideals for which they struggled. Their sacrifice is the foundation of modern Assam.”
The Assam Movement stands as one of the most transformative mass agitations in independent India. Sustained for six tumultuous years, it was a widespread public campaign demanding the identification and deportation of illegal migrants, particularly those who had infiltrated Assam from neighbouring Bangladesh. The movement successfully reshaped political narratives, awakened cultural consciousness, and fundamentally altered Assam’s future trajectory, culminating in the signing of the Assam Accord in 1985.
