In a significant step toward addressing concerns, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma held a meeting today with leaders of the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) to review the recommendations from the Justice (Retd) Biplab Kumar Sarma Committee regarding the implementation of Clause 6 of the Assam Accord.
The meeting focused on safeguarding the cultural, social, and linguistic identity of the Assamese people, as outlined in Clause 6. CM Sarma announced that the state plans to implement 52 of the 67 recommendations put forth by the committee, which primarily fall under the jurisdiction of the state government. He emphasised the commitment to develop an action plan within a month, aiming to complete the implementation by April 15 of next year.
"We will seek the Centre's assistance in discussing 15 recommendations that require their jurisdiction," Sarma stated, highlighting the collaborative effort needed for successful implementation. The CM also confirmed that the recommendations would not be enforced in Barak Valley or the Sixth Schedule areas without local consent, ensuring that community voices are considered in the decision-making process.
The meeting marks a proactive approach by the state government to engage with AASU and other stakeholders over the next three months, as the government prioritizes discussions on the proposed measures. Among the key topics was the contentious issue of reserving 80 percent of seats for Assamese people in the Assembly and Panchayats, which Sarma acknowledged needs further dialogue with the Central government.
On September 7, CM Sarma first announced the state's intention to advance the recommendations from the Biplab Sarma Commission, focusing on crucial elements of the Assam Accord. His administration is keen to act promptly, with plans to bring the recommendations into effect ahead of the Bohag Bihu festival.
Taking to social media, Sarma expressed his determination to see the recommendations implemented, stating, "Assam has decided to move forward with the recommendations of the Justice (Retd) Biplab Sarma Committee regarding Clause 6 of the Assam Accord. We have outlined a roadmap for these recommendations, with some requiring the concurrence of the Government of India."
