Assam groups urge PM Modi to address 11 key issues during his visit
Guwahati: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for a two-day visit to Assam on January 17 and 18, civil society groups, student bodies, indigenous organizations and public platforms have flagged 11 pressing issues. They have urged the Prime Minister to address these concerns directly amid the build-up to the 2026 Assam Assembly elections.
The visit comes at a politically significant moment, with identity, governance, development and security dominating public discourse in the state.
As per the official schedule, Modi will on January 18 lay the foundation stone for the ?6,957-crore, 34.5-km elevated corridor through Kaziranga National Park. Authorities project the project as a key initiative to reduce travel time while minimising wildlife disturbance.
On January 17, the Prime Minister will attend a mega Bagurumba dance performance by nearly 10,000 artistes at Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati. He will also flag off several new train services, including Dibrugarh–Gomti, Guwahati–Rohtak and the Kolkata–Guwahati Vande Bharat sleeper train.
However, civil society representatives said celebratory events must not overshadow unresolved and deep-rooted problems.
Eleven key issues flagged
Groups raised concerns over environmental degradation and deforestation, citing illegal mining, encroachment and destruction of forest areas that threaten Assam’s biodiversity.
They highlighted gaps in healthcare and education, especially in rural and tribal regions, pointing to poor infrastructure, staff shortages and high dropout rates.
Unemployment and economic inequality, particularly among youth, also featured prominently.
Civil society groups reiterated demands for long-term solutions to annual floods and river erosion, which displace lakhs of people every year.
They flagged the ongoing unrest at Tezpur University, where protests have continued for over 100 days over alleged administrative lapses, financial irregularities and ecological damage.
The safety of Northeast students outside the region emerged as another major concern, amid reports of racial discrimination and violence.
Groups also demanded swift and transparent justice in the murder case of iconic Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, citing public concern despite progress such as the SIT chargesheet and appointment of special prosecutors.
Agricultural distress, driven by climate vulnerability, poor market access and price instability, was another key issue.
Indigenous organisations renewed their demand for ST status for six communities — Tai Ahom, Moran, Matak, Chutia, Koch-Rajbongshi and Tea Tribes — ahead of the 2026 polls.
They also called for full implementation of the Assam Accord, particularly the post-1971 foreigner detection clauses, and reiterated opposition to the Citizenship Amendment Act.
Groups further raised concerns over border management and security challenges along the Bangladesh border.
Demand for direct engagement
Student leaders and indigenous forums appealed for direct interaction with the Prime Minister, especially during the proposed public rally at Kaliabor on January 18. They urged him to address people’s concerns instead of limiting the visit to announcements and showcases.
While BJP leaders have highlighted connectivity, culture and conservation as key themes of the visit, political observers said meaningful engagement with grassroots issues could shape public sentiment ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Many believe the Prime Minister’s response or lack of it during this visit will have a lasting impact on Assam’s political narrative.