KOKRAJHAR, JULY 30: The All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU) observed the 29th Anti-Terrorism Day on Wednesdayat Goybari near Basugaon in Chirang district, Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), in solemn remembrance of its former president, Jwhwlao Swmbla Basumatary, who was assassinated by extremists on this day in 1996. Since then, ABSU has been observing the day to spread awareness about the impact of terrorism and advocate for peace.
The commemoration began with ABSU president Dipen Boro hoisting the students union flag at half-mast, symbolizing a tribute to the fallen leader. The central programme was held at the martyr’s memorial, where Bhanumati Basumatary, wife of the late Basumatary led a heartfelt floral and candle-light offering to honour his legacy and sacrifice.
Thousands of ABSU members, students, and civil society representatives participated in the event. The occasion was marked by a human chain, mass signature campaign, and the release of white doves and balloons—powerful symbols of peace, unity, and the fight against terrorism.
The gathering reflected on the tragic assassination of Swmbla Basumatary, who was gunned down by armed extremists at Hatimatha village in Kokrajhar while serving as ABSU’s central president. His death remains a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by democratic and student-led movements in the region.
The programme was attended by several key dignitaries including BTC Chief Executive Member Pramod Boro, Assam Cabinet Minister Urkhao Gwra Brahma, MLAs Lawrence Islary,Jiran Basumatary, Nirmal Kumar Brahma, Bodo Sahitya Sabha president,Dr Surath Narzary, ABSU General Secretary Khanindra Basumatary, and BTC executive members.
Addressing the gathering, CEM of BTR, Pramod Boro called for renewed commitment to peace and non-violence, urging the youth to uphold democratic values and resist all forms of extremism. He stated, “Terrorism must never be allowed to overpower peace and progress. We must carry forward the legacy of leaders like Swmbla Basumatary, who stood for justice and unity.”
“Terrorism and violence have no place in a civilised society.Today, on the 29th death anniversary of Jwhwlao Swmbla Basumatary, I joined Hon’ble Minister Shri Urkhao Gwra Brahma and my colleague EMs & MCLAs in observing Anti-Terrorism Day. As white doves flew high in the skies of Basugaon, we reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to harmony, and pledged to make Bodoland a beacon of peace and hope for all humanity”,he said.
The event concluded with a collective pledge to fight against terrorism and promote harmony in society.
