Gaurav Gogoi opposes move to privatize NRL, moves PM Narendra Modi

GUWAHATI: In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kaliabor MLA Gaurav Gogoi opined that Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) holds 61.65 per cent share of Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL), located in the Golaghat district and the privatisation of the BPCL will subsequently result in the privatisation of NRL.

His letter read: “This privatisation is being opposed on numerous grounds by the general public in Assam. First, there is a rising public sentiment that has emerged against this move. This owes to the historic commitment made in the Assam Accord by the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, that led to the birth of NRL. There is therefore a regional value and history attached to NRL. Second, the Refinery is a profit making subsidiary. Since October 2000, NRL has paid more than Rs 30,000 crore to the national and slate exchequer.

“Finally, NRL has contributed significantly to the socio-economic development of the district of Golaghat. It has improved employment opportunities for the local youth, especially the indigenous populations. Additionally, NRL has initiated environmental conservation in the region by producing friendly fuels and adopting environmentally friendly technology. NRL has also committed to several Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives (CSR), including infrastructure development, rural electrification, and promotion of arts and literature. With a track record of continuous growth and socio economic development, NRL has been conferred the status of Mini Ratna PSU. The privatisation of NRL would not only hurt the local sentiments and shared history of Assam, but would also render several local people jobless and insecure.

“For all of these reasons, this privatisation has been opposed by the Assamese population and I support the sentiments of the people. I request you to halt the privatisation of the Numahigarli Refinery and kindly protect the interests of the local Assamese populace.”

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