Guwahati, Aug 29 (PTI) - The centenary of Assam's first non-Congress Chief Minister, Golap Borbora, is being commemorated, with notable figures, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, joining in the celebrations. Borbora, recognized as a socialist leader and freedom fighter, holds the distinction of being the first opposition member to represent Assam in the Rajya Sabha.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his respects in a tribute on X, stating, "Celebrating the birth centenary of Golap Borbora, a leader whose life was a testament to courage, simplicity, and dedication to Assam's people... His ideals remain everlasting and an inspiration to all of us in public life."
A defining period of Borbora's political career was his leadership of the Janata Party government from March 12, 1978, to September 4, 1979. To honor his contributions, Amit Shah will attend a dedicated programme as the chief guest.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also commemorated Borbora, lauding his commitment to public service and resistance against corruption. "With steadfast dedication and selfless service, Golap Borbora, the first non-Congress chief minister of Assam, earned a lasting place in the hearts of the people," Sonowal shared. He further highlighted Borbora's bold stand against the emergency imposed by the Congress party.
Sonowal, a former Assam Chief Minister, acknowledged Borbora's enduring influence, stating that his people-centric vision continues to guide and inspire. "On the occasion of his birth centenary, I pay my heartfelt tribute to this great Assamese soul who loved Assam deeply and served it with utmost sincerity," Sonowal added.
Pankaj Borbora, Golap Borbora's son and a BJP state spokesperson, expressed appreciation for the state's recognition of his father's legacy, noting similarities between the current government's policies and Borbora's ideology. He recounted his father's role in the freedom struggle and advocacy for workers' rights, which included his 19-month imprisonment for opposing the Emergency.
Pankaj highlighted the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls initiated during Borbora's tenure, which brought attention to the illegal immigration issue. "It was the intensive voters' list revision under his government ahead of the 1978 Mangaldai bye-election, which was similar to the ongoing SIR, that had brought forth the illegal Bangladeshi issue. He wanted to go for such revision in another 60 Assembly constituencies," he noted.
Reflecting on his father's impact, Pankaj emphasized the persistent relevance of Borbora's ideals and expressed gratitude to those preserving his legacy. Golap Borbora passed away on March 19, 2006, due to age-related ailments.
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