Rahul Rohan Paul
(rahrohpaul@gmail.com)
December 6 holds a special place in Assam’s history as the day that symbolizes the culmination of years of struggle, negotiation, and hope for safeguarding the identity of the Assamese people. Yet, this day often passes unnoticed, overshadowed by other historical milestones. It was on this date in 1985 that the Government of India enacted the Assam Accord Implementation Act, following the signing of the Assam Accord earlier that year on August 15. This accord was the result of the six-year-long Assam Movement (1979–1985), led by the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) and the All Assam Gana Sangram Parishad (AAGSP), to address the burning issue of illegal immigration.
The Assam Movement was a historic and emotive uprising against the unchecked influx of illegal immigrants, particularly from Bangladesh, which the indigenous population feared would dilute their cultural identity and political representation. This movement united people across ethnic, linguistic, and social lines in a common fight for their rights. The Assam Accord, signed on Independence Day in 1985, sought to address these concerns with key provisions such as the detection, deletion, and deportation of illegal immigrants and the safeguarding of Assamese heritage.
However, the Act meant to implement the Accord officially came into force on December 6, 1985. This date signifies the Indian government’s formal commitment to fulfilling the promises made in the Accord. Among its primary provisions were the identification of foreigners based on the 1971 cut-off date, constitutional safeguards to protect Assamese identity, and socio-economic development of the state. Yet, nearly four decades later, the promises of the Accord remain only partially fulfilled.
One of the most controversial aspects of the Assam Accord is the National Register of Citizens (NRC). The NRC, updated in 2019 under the provisions of the Accord, has left many questions unanswered and sparked new debates. Over 19 lakh people were excluded from the NRC list, leading to widespread uncertainty and legal challenges. With the recent Supreme Court order to consider re-verifying 20% of NRC applications in border districts, the issue has once again resurfaced. These developments bring renewed anxiety for those living in limbo, including marginalized communities who struggle to prove their citizenship.
Adding to this, the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) of 2019 has sparked further controversy. While the Assam Accord explicitly set 1971 as the cut-off date for determining citizenship, the CAA extends this to 2014 for certain groups, leading to allegations of undermining the Accord. For many in Assam, this is seen as a betrayal of their long-fought struggle and the very identity they sought to protect.
As we reflect on December 6, it’s essential to recognize that the fight for Assamese identity is not a matter of nostalgia—it remains a living, breathing concern. The day reminds us of the importance of striking a balance between the protection of local cultures and the upholding of humanitarian principles. It is also a call for policymakers to ensure timely and fair implementation of the Accord’s provisions, as justice delayed is justice denied.
For the youth, this day carries a vital message: they must stay informed and engaged in the region’s socio-political discourse. Only through collective effort can the people of Assam ensure that their voices are heard, their rights protected, and their cultural heritage preserved for generations to come. December 6 is not just a day to commemorate—it is a reminder to act.