Tensions escalated in Nazira on April 23 as the All Tai Ahom Students’ Union (ATAASU) Sub-Divisional Committee launched a fierce protest against Debabrata Saikia, the Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly. The students’ body burned Saikia’s effigy in the heart of his own constituency. The protest erupted in response to what the organisation called an “anti-Ahom” remark allegedly made by Saikia, a Congress MLA from Nazira. The students marched with banners and slogans, accusing him of insulting the sentiments of the Ahom community and demanding an unconditional public apology.
The protest gained momentum in the afternoon, as students from nearby areas joined in, waving the traditional Tai Ahom flags and shouting slogans against the Congress leader. Protestors claimed that Saikia’s statement belittled the cultural heritage and historic contributions of the Ahom community in Assam. According to ATAASU members, the MLA’s comment not only hurt community pride but also sowed seeds of discord.
ATAASU leaders stated that Saikia must withdraw his remarks immediately and clarify his stance publicly to avoid further escalation. They vowed to intensify their agitation if he failed to issue an apology. Protestors accused Saikia of using divisive language and ignoring the significance of the Ahom community’s role in shaping Assam’s identity. They alleged that his political rhetoric betrayed a lack of respect for Assam’s indigenous history.
Local police closely monitored the demonstration to prevent any disruption or violence. Security personnel created a barricade around the protest site and kept a watchful eye on proceedings. Although the protest remained peaceful, officials reported that tensions ran high and that more police personnel might be deployed in the area in the coming days if protests continue.
Debabrata Saikia, who has often positioned himself as a champion of inclusive politics, has yet to comment on the specific allegation. His silence further agitated protestors, who claimed that his inaction reflected arrogance and disregard. ATAASU members said they would continue to organise protests in different parts of Assam until Saikia offered a sincere apology and retracted his statement.
Residents of Nazira expressed mixed reactions to the protest. Some locals supported the students’ call for accountability and respect, while others feared that the growing political divide could spark further unrest. Community elders urged all parties to engage in dialogue and avoid creating unnecessary divisions over historical and cultural pride.
Political observers noted that the incident could affect Saikia’s standing in his own constituency. They pointed out that the Ahom community has historically played a vital role in shaping electoral outcomes in Upper Assam. A loss of support from this influential group could deal a significant blow to his prospects. They also noted that opposition parties might use the controversy to question the Congress party’s sensitivity toward indigenous issues.
The ruling BJP reacted swiftly to the controversy. BJP leaders condemned the remark and expressed solidarity with the protesting students. They accused the Congress of harbouring a leadership that disrespects the people’s sentiments. Some BJP MLAs stated that the comment exposed the opposition’s detachment from the cultural and emotional pulse of Assam.
ATAASU’s protest has reignited debate over how public figures speak about communities and their histories. Student unions in Assam have long played a powerful role in shaping public opinion and political dialogue. Their mobilisation, especially when driven by identity-related concerns, often exerts significant pressure on elected representatives.
As calls for a public apology grow louder, Saikia faces the task of managing both political fallout and public sentiment. With state politics becoming increasingly sensitive to cultural identity and historical legacy, observers suggest that political leaders need to weigh their words carefully. The protest in Nazira might mark the beginning of a broader movement demanding greater respect for Assam’s diverse communities and their shared heritage.
