Amidst Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Assam, the state braces for another wave of protests against the contentious Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) of 2019.
A conglomerate comprising 16 political parties and approximately 30 NGOs has announced a series of agitations, marking a renewed phase of resistance against the controversial legislation.
Led by the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) and bolstered by the support of indigenous organizations, the anti-CAA programs are set to commence with motorcycle rallies across district headquarters on March 4. Subsequently, the burning of CAA rules post-notification is planned, symbolizing dissent against the legislation.
The announcement of these protests comes in response to the recent statement by Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the imminent framing of rules for CAA implementation. Utpal Sarma, the president of AASU, vehemently denounced this move, labeling it as a grave injustice to the people of Assam. Sarma emphasized the steadfast opposition of the Assamese people to the CAA, reaffirming their commitment to democratic and peaceful agitation against its imposition.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit, slated for March 8, coincides with the planned protests. While Modi is expected to engage in various ceremonial activities during his two-day visit, including unveiling a statue of 17th-century Ahom general Lachit Borphukan and inaugurating development projects, the dissenting voices in Assam are poised to make their resistance heard.
The agitational programs culminate in a 12-hour hunger strike across all districts on March 9, symbolically protesting against the CAA during the Prime Minister’s presence in the state. Additionally, the demonstrators intend to honor the memory of five individuals who lost their lives during anti-CAA protests in 2019 by lighting lamps before their portraits.
CAA: The centre of protests
The CAA, which aims to provide Indian citizenship to persecuted minorities from neighboring countries, has sparked widespread controversy and opposition in Assam and other parts of the country. Critics argue that the legislation undermines the secular fabric of the Indian Constitution and discriminates against Muslims, while proponents assert that it offers refuge to persecuted minorities. As Assam gears up for yet another round of protests, the underlying tensions surrounding the CAA persist, reflecting a broader societal divide on the issue.
