Call for Bodo political unity gains ground amid fears of dilution of democracy

OUR CORRESPONDENT

KOKRAJHAR: In a significant development reflecting growing concerns within the Bodo community, several intellectuals, civil society members, former bureaucrats, and conscious citizens have appealed to leaders of various Bodo political parties to unite for the greater good of society. They believe that the current trend of fragmented politics in the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) is weakening the 6th Schedule’s essence and transforming tribal self-rule into a general administrative setup, increasingly influenced by political mentors from Dispur.

Renowned documentary filmmaker and author Anamika Basumatary voiced strong opinions on the need for political unification among Bodos. She noted that the idea of “unity” has triggered serious debate within the BTC political landscape. According to her, parties like the United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) and its affiliates, including the All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU), have taken steps towards initiating a dialogue with the Bodoland People’s Front (BPF). Encouragingly, BPF has not rejected this proposal and has shown interest in engaging in discussions.

However, Basumatary cautioned that the current push for political unity may be part of a larger strategy orchestrated by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ideological affiliate, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). She warned that if all Bodo political parties—UPPL, BPF, and APB—merge into a single alliance, it could result in the collapse of opposition and the erosion of dissent, raising concerns about the representation of core issues like tribal rights and social justice.

“Unity is essential, but it must be rooted in social consciousness, not confined to the corridors of power,” she stated. “If even non-political organizations become party affiliates, we risk losing impartiality and weakening social awareness.”

Basumatary urged civil organizations like ABSU to remain vigilant and avoid falling into what she described as a “political trap.” She emphasized the democratic necessity of having both ruling and opposition parties and encouraged non-political bodies to advocate for public interest without partisan alignment.

“Without active public vigilance, BTC’s autonomy and democratic participation may disappear. We must reflect, rise above personal ambitions, and protect the core values of tribal self-rule,” she added.

Echoing similar sentiments, retired IRS officer Janaklal Basumatary warned that the hunger for power among Bodo political leaders could result in BTC becoming an autocratic setup under the influence of the non-tribal BJP. He stressed the urgency for non-political civil society members, intellectuals, and professionals to unite in defending the constitutional and democratic rights of tribal communities. “The time has come to sound the alarm and protect our autonomy,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, former BTC Deputy Chief and current UPPL member Kampa Borgoyari revealed that multiple attempts had been made to foster political unity among Bodo parties. However, he alleged that the efforts have stalled due to a lack of clarity from BPF president Hagrama Mohilary. While other senior BPF leaders, including former-Minister Rihon Daimary, MLA Rabiram Narzary, and former-EM Emmanuel Mashahary, have participated in unification talks, the initiative has yet to bear fruit. Borgoyari urged Mohilary to clearly state his stance if he genuinely supports Bodo unity.

Also Read: Draft voter list for Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) election released in Tamulpur

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