Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma paid homage to the martyrs of the Assam agitation on Swahid Divas, remembering Khargeswar Talukdar, the first martyr of the movement, along with over 850 others who lost their lives fighting against illegal infiltration.

Sarma took to X, stating, “Their love for Aai Asomi (Mother Assam) will always inspire us as we remember their supreme sacrifice today.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi also commemorated the heroes of the Assam Movement, highlighting their bravery and reaffirming his government’s commitment to preserving Assam’s culture and supporting the state’s progress.

During a ceremonial event, Sarma inaugurated the Swahid Smarak in Boragaon, a memorial constructed at a cost of Rs 170 crore to honor the martyrs of the 1979-85 Assam agitation. The monument includes a prayer hall, auditorium, water bodies, a cycle track, and a sound and light show depicting Assam’s struggle and heritage.

The Chief Minister described the memorial as a symbol of the Assamese people’s resolve to uphold their dignity and a source of inspiration for future generations. Swahid Divas was observed with events across all districts and sub-divisional headquarters. Cabinet ministers and members of the All Assam Students Union (AASU), the principal force behind the agitation, also attended a special prayer meeting at the memorial.