Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal recently criticized the Congress party for failing to give the appropriate recognition to the legacy of Lachit Borphukan, the revered Ahom General who played a pivotal role in safeguarding Assam’s sovereignty during the 17th century. In a strong statement, Sonowal underscored the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) continued efforts to honor the legendary figure and emphasized that the BJP had consistently acknowledged Borphukan’s significance in the history of Assam and India.
Lachit Borphukan, known for his strategic brilliance and unwavering leadership during the Battle of Saraighat in 1671, is a celebrated hero in Assam. His military acumen and dedication to protecting his land against Mughal invasions have made him a symbol of resistance and patriotism. However, Sonowal pointed out that while Congress ruled the state and the country for many years, they never made a concerted effort to highlight Borphukan’s legacy in the national narrative.
In a recent speech, Sonowal said that it was the BJP that had, over the years, ensured that Lachit Borphukan’s contributions were given due importance. From dedicating a memorial in his honor to celebrating Lachit Diwas, a day observed to pay tribute to the Ahom general, Sonowal stressed that it was the BJP that had brought Lachit Borphukan’s heroic deeds into the public consciousness. He accused Congress of ignoring the history of Assam’s valiant leaders, and said that the BJP had always recognized the importance of preserving and celebrating regional history.
Sarbananda Sonowal further emphasized that while the Congress had failed to promote the legacy of regional heroes, it was the BJP that had worked to bring pride to the people of Assam by honoring such figures. He pointed out that the recognition of figures like Lachit Borphukan had never been a priority under Congress rule. The BJP, on the other hand, according to Sonowal, had made a conscious effort to celebrate Assam’s rich cultural and historical heritage, linking it to national pride.
As part of the BJP’s commitment to honoring Assam’s history, the party has ensured that various initiatives were taken to establish Lachit Borphukan’s legacy as a beacon of patriotism for the nation. Sonowal also highlighted the role of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in recognizing the contributions of Lachit Borphukan and other regional leaders who played a key role in the historical development of the nation. Modi, he noted, had paid tribute to Borphukan’s valor during official visits to Assam, reinforcing the BJP’s stance of promoting regional leaders and their contributions to India’s history.
Sonowal also criticized Congress for what he called its lack of initiative in preserving the history of Assam, alleging that their neglect of leaders like Lachit Borphukan was an attempt to overshadow the state’s rich cultural heritage. In contrast, he praised the BJP for acknowledging regional figures who had made significant contributions to the state and the country. According to Sonowal, the BJP’s work was not only about recognizing history but also about inspiring future generations to take pride in their heritage.
The debate over Lachit Borphukan’s recognition has taken on heightened significance in recent years, especially with the growing political engagement of regional identities. In Assam, the name of Lachit Borphukan has become synonymous with courage, determination, and patriotism. Sonowal’s comments reflect the ongoing political battle for the narrative of Assam’s historical figures, with the BJP seeking to define the cultural and political identity of the state in its own terms.
While the Congress may have been slow to recognize Lachit Borphukan’s legacy, Sonowal’s statement underscores a broader effort by the BJP to shape the political and cultural discourse in Assam. By highlighting figures like Lachit Borphukan, the BJP is making a deliberate effort to reconnect the people of Assam with their roots and ensure that regional pride is woven into the national fabric. Sonowal’s criticism of Congress thus serves as both a reflection of ongoing political tensions and a call to remember the heroes of Assam’s past.
