Netaji who saved western Assam in 1937

Dhubri: Along with the rest of the nation, Dhubri on Friday observed the 129th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a day officially recognised by the Centre as Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour) since 2021.The celebration was held at Netaji Mor (Panch Mor) beneath the statue of Bose. President of the Netaji Janma Jayanti Celebration Committee, Prosenjit Dutta; chairman of Dhubri municipal board, Debamoy Sanyal; and veteran artist and social activist Sushanta Kar addressed the gathering, speaking at length about Netaji’s life and his immense contribution to India’s freedom struggle.The daylong programme featured an art competition and cultural performances, drawing enthusiastic participation from the local community.Speaking to TOI, committee president Prosenjit Dutta said Bose would always be remembered for his role in India’s fight against the British Empire. He added that people in western Assam have special reasons to honour him, as Netaji played a decisive role in preventing this region’s inclusion into East Pakistan.“In 1937, as president of the Indian National Congress, Netaji toppled the Sir Sadulla-led Muslim League govt, which had demanded the inclusion of western Assam in East Pakistan. His charismatic leadership paved the way for the formation of a Congress govt under Gopinath Bordoloi, thereby saving this region,” Dutta recalled.Netaji had visited Dhubri during that period, staying at Duttabari in Ward No-1 for two days. He met legislators from western Assam constituencies and garnered their support to oust the Muslim League govt.