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The Assamese language
In the article 'The Assamese language: Today and tomorrow,' published in your esteemed daily on February 7, the writer, Himanshu Ranjan Bhuyan, must be appreciated for rightly pointing out that after the Government of India's acknowledgement of the Assamese language as a classical language, the status must bring to the attention of all stakeholders the importance of its preservation and growth to ensure that the state's future generations are not alienated from Assamese language and cultural heritage. It is absolutely true that today, the Assamese language is at a crossroads, facing significant challenges in the face of globalisation and modernisation and socio-political influences. It has been observed that there is a steady decline in its usage in the home state, especially among the younger generations, but, surprisingly, there is tremendous love for the language among children and parents living outside the state and especially abroad, where English is seen as the gateway to better educational and professional opportunities. There is no problem with the state's government schools where the language is given due importance right from the lower classes to the higher classes, but the problem arises in English-medium private schools where Assamese now needs to be treated as a main subject and speaking in daily conversation, in academic performances, and even in the workplace must be made mandatory, and this step must be initiated urgently everywhere within the state to check growing apathy towards learning the Assamese language, which is the official language of Assam, among the present generations. Another important requirement is the intensive use of Assamese patriotic songs in educational institutions, government, and private offices every day before beginning the normal proceedings. Every district headquarter should broadcast it through fixed loudspeakers every morning and evening to deepen the spirit of love for the language. Parents must encourage their children to speak and write in Assamese and participate in literary and cultural competitions, and such collective efforts can help Assamese revert from its sorry state. There is a need for an environment where every Assamese will start reading Assamese books, enjoy mobile Assamese theatre, Assamese music, and Assamese cinemas, which will definitely empower the Assamese language in the days to come.
Iqbal Saikia,
Guwahati.
Tragic loss of young lives in Assam’s rising bike accidents
Assam is grappling with a surge in fatal bike accidents among young riders, with reckless driving and poor visibility due to fog being significant contributors. These tragedies have profound impacts on families and communities, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures. On December 31, 2024, the state’s music fraternity suffered a significant loss when rising singer Tusar Tirtha Barman died in a major accident in Bongaigaon. Barman was reportedly on his way home when his two-wheeler crashed into a divider, leading to his untimely death. The loss of young talents like Barman leaves families devastated and communities mourning. Many of these accidents occur late at night or in the early hours of the morning, when fog significantly reduces visibility, yet high-speed riding remains prevalent. In some cases, underage or inexperienced riders, emboldened by social media trends and peer pressure, engage in dangerous stunts or ride without proper safety gear. Drunk driving is another alarming factor, with many young riders underestimating the risks associated with impaired judgement and slower reaction times. The consequences of these accidents extend far beyond the immediate loss of lives. Families are left shattered; parents are left grappling with profound sorrow and the harsh reality of their children’s untimely deaths, struggling with grief and the financial burden of medical expenses or legal complications. Parents, in particular, are grappling with the fear of letting their children take to the roads, leading to an atmosphere of anxiety and mistrust towards the younger generation’s sense of responsibility. Many in society now perceive today’s youth as reckless and indifferent to safety, further deepening the generational divide. To address this growing crisis, a multifaceted approach is needed. Stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, especially regarding helmet use, speed limits, and drunk driving, is crucial. Awareness campaigns aimed at educating young riders about the real-life consequences of reckless behaviour could help instill a greater sense of responsibility. Additionally, improving road infrastructure, such as better street lighting and designated bike lanes, can mitigate risks associated with poor visibility. Encouraging parental supervision and open communication about road safety could also play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of caution and accountability. Ultimately, reversing the trend of rising bike accidents requires collective efforts from authorities, parents, and young riders themselves. Only through a concerted focus on education, enforcement, and empathy can we hope to create safer roads and prevent further loss of young lives.
Atreya Kakati
(atreyakakati45773@gmail.com)
Capital wanted change, votes for change
The mass victory of the BJP, and that too in a stupendous manner in the Delhi election, goes to show that the people cast the vote after a lot of rethinking—whether to support a party alleged of high corruption and 'vain volubility ' or support one that assured them of dreams that can be made into a reality. The results also expose the pathetic picture of the Congress, completely decimated. The oldest party didn't foresee such a plight as it thought that people still 'blindly' believed them. It is high time it goes for a mighty revamp, or else it goes into oblivion forever. The BJP leadership, both at the national and regional levels, really worked hard to conquer the hearts of the people of the capital and now must fulfil the promise and pledges given to the masses. The leaders of the party must not get conceited and vainglorious, and it is high time for the party and its helmsmen, both in the state and the centre, to really feel the pulse beating of the people and try their level best to mitigate the woes of the citizens.
M Pradyu
(pradyumukund22@gmail.com)