Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid homage to the martyrs of the Assam Agitation, describing their sacrifices as an inseparable part of the state’s identity and collective memory. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring Assam’s progress, prosperity and cultural pride.
On the concluding day of his two-day visit to the northeastern state, the Prime Minister visited the ‘Swahid Smarak Kshetra’ and offered floral tributes to the 860 martyrs of the six-year-long agitation against illegal immigration. He paid his respects before the ‘Swahid Pranam Jyoti’, the eternal flame lit in memory of those who lost their lives during the movement.
In a post on X, Modi said his visit to the memorial and the Swahid Gallery was deeply emotional, as it reminded him of the courage and sacrifices of the martyrs of the Assam Movement. He said their contribution continues to shape Assam’s social and cultural consciousness, adding that the Centre remains dedicated to working tirelessly for the state’s all-round development.
During the visit, the Prime Minister also garlanded the bust of Khargeswar Talukdar, the first martyr of the agitation, who died on December 10, 1979. The memorial was inaugurated earlier this month to mark his death anniversary. Modi spent around 20 minutes at the site, walking through the memorial complex and the gallery housing busts of the martyrs, and was presented with a replica of the monument.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who accompanied the Prime Minister, said Modi’s visit reflected his respect for the sacrifices made by the people of Assam to protect their culture and identity. In a social media post, Sarma contrasted the period of the agitation with what he described as the current phase of development, asserting that Assam is now witnessing growth, stability and renewed confidence.
Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Assam Accord Implementation Minister Atul Bora were also present during the visit. Bora later said it was a memorable day for the state, noting that no previous prime minister had paid tribute to the Assam Agitation martyrs in such a detailed and personal manner.
Built at an estimated cost of ₹170 crore, the memorial complex includes water bodies, an auditorium, a prayer hall, a cycle track and facilities for a sound-and-light show depicting the history of the Assam Agitation and the state’s journey. The movement culminated in the signing of the Assam Accord on August 15, 1985, with the detection and deportation of illegal immigrants remaining its central demand — an issue that continues to influence Assam’s political and social discourse.
