KOKRAJHAR, June 4, 2025 — Tensions flared across Assam’s Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) on Wednesday as angry demonstrators flooded streets. Demanding an immediate apology from a senior BJP leader who invoked the name of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma for political mileage.
The uproar follows a speech by Arup Kumar Dey, an Executive Member of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), at the inauguration of a Hanuman Temple in Nepalpara Bazar, Serfanguri, Kokrajhar district, on Tuesday.
Controversial Remark Sparks Outrage: Bodoland Protests
During the temple event, Dey reportedly said that supporting the dreams and ideals of Bodofa Brahma — a revered figure seen as the father of the modern Bodo movement — meant supporting the BJP in upcoming elections over regional parties like the United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) and Bodo People’s Front (BPF).
That statement quickly drew sharp criticism from various Bodo organizations, student unions, and civil society groups, who viewed the comment as an attempt to politicize a spiritual and cultural leader whose vision had united the Bodo people beyond partisan lines.
Protesters Demand Public Apology
By early Wednesday morning, spontaneous rallies erupted in several Bodo-majority areas, including Kokrajhar, Udalguri, and Baksa. Protesters carried placards with slogans like “Don’t Play Politics with Bodofa” and “Apologize Now, Respect Our Icon.”
Local student bodies such as the All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU), which Bodofa Brahma once led, issued a statement condemning Dey’s remarks as “irresponsible and manipulative.”
“Bodofa’s ideology was about unity, education, and the upliftment of the Bodo community. No party has the right to claim ownership of his vision,” said an ABSU spokesperson at a press gathering in Kokrajhar.
Bodo Sentiment and Political Neutrality
Bodofa Upendranath Brahma, who passed away in 1990, is venerated across Assam and especially in the Bodoland region. He led peaceful protests demanding autonomy and educational rights for Bodos. His motto — “Live and Let Live” — continues to inspire tribal youth and leaders.
By invoking his legacy for political gain, many feel that Arup Dey crossed a line that could undermine social harmony in the region. The Bodoland Territorial Region, formed under the Bodo Accord, has long strived to maintain political neutrality regarding community icons to avoid ethnic and political polarization.
Political Fallout and Regional Implications
The controversy has placed the BJP on the defensive at a time when alliances in the region are already strained. Both UPPL and BPF leaders have condemned Dey’s remarks, demanding that the BJP issue a formal clarification and instruct its members to refrain from politicizing revered figures.
Political analysts warn that this controversy could hurt the BJP’s image among tribal voters. Some believe the incident might even boost support for regional parties in upcoming BTC or state elections.
Call for Responsible Leadership
As protests continued into the evening, calls for peace and restraint were made by community elders and religious leaders. However, they reiterated that respect for Bodofa Brahma’s memory is non-negotiable.
Efforts are underway to organize a community dialogue, and pressure is mounting on Dey to issue an apology. At the time of filing this report, the BJP leader had not responded to media requests.
The incident in Bodoland is a reminder of the deep emotional and cultural ties people have with their community icons. When politics touches those sacred lines, the backlash is swift and potent. If the BJP hopes to retain its standing in the region, it must tread carefully and show respect for the legacy of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma, a man who still lives in the hearts of his people.
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