Assam’s Memorial for Agitation Martyrs Approaches Completion

The construction of the **Swahid Smarak Kshetra**, a memorial dedicated to the martyrs of the six-year-long Assam Agitation against Bangladeshi infiltration, is nearing completion in **Guwahati**, according to **Atul Bora**, Assam’s Accord Implementation Minister. This memorial aims to honor the individuals who lost their lives during the significant movement that concluded with the signing of the **Assam Accord** in **August 1985**.

In a social media post on **July 27, 2023**, Bora highlighted the government’s commitment to completing the memorial, located in **Pachim Boragaon**. Accompanied by a delegation from the **All Assam Students’ Union (AASU)**, Bora reviewed the progress of the project, expressing gratitude for the leadership of **Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma**.

Features and Vision of the Memorial

The **Swahid Smarak Kshetra** will encompass a range of features designed to commemorate the sacrifices made during the Assam Movement. Plans include a **67.2-meter tower**, busts of the martyrs, a light and sound show, a cycle track, a food court, and various other attractions spread across **116 bighas** (over **38 acres**). Bora stated that he participated in a review meeting focused on the project’s latest developments and instructed the concerned authorities to expedite the remaining construction work.

Bora reiterated the government’s dedication to safeguarding the interests of Assam’s indigenous populations, emphasizing the active implementation of various clauses from the Assam Accord. Specifically, he mentioned progress made on **Clause 6**, which addresses political, economic, cultural, and linguistic safeguards for the state’s indigenous communities. The government has begun to implement **52 recommendations** from the report submitted by the **Justice (Retd) Biplab Sarma Committee**, which is crucial for ensuring the rights of local residents.

Feedback from AASU

**Samujjal Kumar Bhattacharjya**, chief advisor of the **AASU**, expressed appreciation for the government’s initiative in undertaking the memorial project, highlighting the importance of accurately portraying the sacrifices of the **860 martyrs** involved in the movement. The AASU delegation provided suggestions to ensure the memorial adequately honors the contributions of both the martyrs and the public.

The establishment of the **Swahid Smarak Kshetra** reflects a significant step toward recognizing the historical and cultural importance of the Assam Agitation, while also addressing contemporary issues surrounding the rights and recognition of indigenous people in the region. As the project nears its completion, its impact on local communities and statewide historical consciousness remains a focal point for both the government and civil society.