Citizens' Rights Protection Committee Protests Unconstitutional Delimitation in Assam

Reported by Samdipto Chakravarti 

Assam, 04/08/2023 - In a powerful demonstration of dissent against the controversial delimitation notification by the Election Commission, Assam, the Citizens' Rights Protection Coordination Committee (CRPCC) observed a 'Black Day' today, staging peaceful protests across various locations in Barak Valley and Silchar. Led by Co-Chairman Kishor Kumar Bhattacharya, the CRPCC's organized protests, marked by the hoisting of black flags and symbolic gestures, drew participation from numerous organizations, despite a heightened police presence.

The CRPCC's message of opposition to the delimitation proposal was evident as black banners adorned the statues of iconic leaders, including Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Rabindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, and the martyr Khudiram Murti. An array of organizations, including Congress, CPI, SUCI(C), CPI(ML) Liberation, Forum for Social Harmony, AIIYTUC, AICCTU, AIDSO, AMWJU, Humanity Foundation, United Cultural Forum, Citizens' Self-Protection Committee, and All India Women's Cultural Organization, stood united in the protest.

Notably, despite the absence of Section 144 restrictions, the police adopted an aggressive stance, stifling any vocal expressions of dissent. This move comes in the backdrop of direct opposition from government leaders and the declaration of an emergency situation by Assam's government. The CRPCC's peaceful protest serves as a reminder that democratic voices advocating for the constitutional rights of Barak Valley face formidable resistance from the administration.

Prominent figures among the participants in today's protest included Nirmal Kumar Das, Subrat Chandra Nath, Sihab Uddin Ahmed, Shyamdeo Kurmi, and many others, demonstrating unwavering commitment to defending the region's democratic values.