Koch-Rajbongshis to lose socio-economic rights if ST status not granted: Naba Kumar Sarania

A Correspondent

TANGLA: "If the Koch Rajbongshi people are not granted ST status in the coming days, the community will lose all socio-political rights in Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC). The fundamental rights given by the Constitution to the community are being snapped and it is high time that the people formulate policies and take active participation for securing their rights and privileges," said Kokrajhar MP Naba Kumar Sarania during the open session of the central delegate meet of All Koch Rajbongshi Students' Union (AKRSU) in Tangla HS playground on Sunday.

The parliamentarian, while delivering his speech in the event hosted by Udalguri (west) chapter of AKRSU, further said that the community had a rich legacy and history but the rights of the Koch Rajbongshi people were being curtailed at the behest of vested circles. Referring to the BTC council polls in 2020, Sarania said, "Some people want change of guard in BTC and it is high time for the community to stand united."

The open session was presided over by outgoing president Kamal Rai and inaugurated by journalist Dipendra Narayan Konwar. Earlier, the stage was inaugurated by social worker Hema Prabha Devi. A souvenir titled Gosai Kamal was also released on the occasion by Udalguri Deputy Commissioner Prakash Ranjan Gharpholia, while another book on poetry by Deva Prasad Talukdar was released on the occasion by Lokeswar Deka.

The event also witnessed felicitation of noted citizens, members of the Koch Royal family and budding sporting talents. Earlier, a cultural rally was also taken out which was inaugurated by Paneri legislator Kamali Basumatari. The delegation meet also unanimously elected a new central committee with Kameshwar Rai as president and Dibyajyoti Kumar Deka and Jibesh Rai as joint general secretaries.

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