Guwahati: A new initiative, the Jana Gana Mana Abhiyaan, was launched in Guwahati on the death anniversary of Srimanta Shankardev, the renowned Vaishnavite reformer of Assam. The launch was a joint effort by Axom Nagarik Samaj and Bharat Jodo Abhiyaan, Assam.
The event featured a public meeting at the Guwahati Press Club, where eminent scholars and leaders discussed the legacy of Srimanta Shankardev and the need for a more inclusive and tolerant society.
The meeting was presided over by Assam’s renowned journalist and Rajya Sabha MP Ajit Kumar Bhuyan .
Dr. Surya Das, a Vaishnavite scholar, highlighted Shankardev’s efforts to unite people from different castes, religions, and social backgrounds. He emphasized the Guru’s empowerment of women and his liberal humanist ideals, which remain relevant in today’s divisive political climate.
Leaders from different communities also spoke at the event. Jones Ingti Kathar, a former bureaucrat and Karbi leader, condemned attempts to sow discord among tribal communities in Karbi Anglong. Dr. Golam Sarwar, Principal of Barnagar B Ed College, criticized the communal hatred directed towards the Miya community.
The Jana Gana Mana Abhiyaan aims to promote unity, diversity, and human rights in Assam. The organizers plan to conduct a series of activities throughout the state, including celebrations of Constitution Day, Sukafa Dibash, Chilaray Dibash, Bhimbar Deuri Dibash, Syed Abdul Malik’s birthday, Human Rights Day, Shilpi Dibash, and International Wetland Day.
By networking with other like-minded organizations, Axom Nagarik Samaj and Bharat Jodo Abhiyaan hope to build a broader movement to challenge the current BJP government in Assam. The initiative has received support from prominent public intellectuals like Dr. Hiren Gohain and Dr. Nagen Saikia.
Earlier Paresh Malakar, General Secretary, Axom Nagarik Samaj and Convenor, BJA, Assam underlined the importance of undertaking the Jana Gana Mana initiatives in Assam.