The Assam Accord is a historic agreement signed in 1985 between the Government of India and the leaders of the Assam Movement, led by the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU). The accord ended a six-year-long agitation in Assam against the illegal influx of migrants into the state. It laid down several measures to protect the cultural, social, and economic rights of the indigenous Assamese people, including the identification and deportation of illegal migrants.
2. What Is Clause 6 of the Assam Accord?
Clause 6 of the Assam Accord is a critical provision that promises to provide constitutional, legislative, and administrative safeguards to protect the cultural, social, and linguistic identity of the Assamese people. It aims to preserve the heritage of Assam by ensuring adequate measures for the protection and preservation of its indigenous population.
3. What Are the Major Recommendations of the Biplab Sarma Committee?
The Biplab Sarma Committee made 52 recommendations to implement Clause 6, focusing on safeguarding Assamese identity. Key recommendations include:
• Defining ‘Assamese People’: The definition includes indigenous communities of Assam, Indian citizens residing in Assam before January 1, 1951, and their descendants.
• Land Rights: Preventing land transfers to non-Assamese and ensuring land rights remain with indigenous people.
• Language Protection: Enforcing the Assamese language in state governance and education, while protecting regional languages in specific areas.
• Autonomous Councils: Establishing new autonomous councils and enhancing powers of existing councils in regions dominated by indigenous populations.
• Reservation in Jobs and Seats: Implementing 100% reservation for Assamese in state government jobs and legislative seats, and increased representation in local bodies and educational institutions.
• Cultural Heritage: Efforts to protect cultural symbols, heritage sites, and practices unique to the Assamese people.
“Safeguarding our identity is not just about laws; it’s about preserving the soul of our heritage for future generations.”
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