Guwahati, Sept 28: The Bodoland People's Front (BPF) has identified granting land pattas to indigenous communities as a key focus for its upcoming term in the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), according to BPF vice president Prabin Boro.
Following a decisive victory in the BTC elections, Boro emphasized that fostering unity among all communities in the BTC region is also a top priority. He stated, “We do not categorize people based on religion. The BPF believes in equal rights for all.”
The BPF secured 28 out of 40 seats in the BTC, while the United People's Party Liberal (UPPL) won seven and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claimed five. The Congress party did not win any seats. Boro expressed that in the 2020 elections, the BPF felt betrayed by the Government, as they were the largest party yet were not given the opportunity to form the council, which was instead granted to the BJP and UPPL by the Governor.
He also mentioned that the BPF's request for secret voting in the council was denied, and he believes the electorate responded strongly to this perceived betrayal.
Discussing the reasons behind the BPF's significant win, Boro pointed out that the previous council had failed to meet its commitments. He criticized the UPPL-BJP alliance for effectively ceding control of 16 out of 40 council departments to the State Government.
Concerns about identity among the Bodo people were exacerbated by remarks from some BJP leaders, leading to fears of losing their cultural identity.
When asked if the BPF would seek support from the BJP, Boro replied, “We hold a complete majority and do not require anyone's backing. We have previously supported the BJP on various issues in the Assembly. If they wish to support us in the council, they are welcome.”
Boro also announced that upon assuming control of the council under Hagrama Mohilary's leadership, a Rs 100-crore fund would be established to assist youth in becoming self-sufficient and starting their own businesses. Additionally, separate funds will be allocated for women, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.
By Staff Reporter
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