Barak Valley, June 26: In a show of opposition to the draft delimitation proposal published by the Election Commission, a 12-hour bandh has been called in the districts in the Barak Valley of Assam, namely Cachar, Hailakandi, and Karimganj.
The bandh has been organized by the Silchar-based political party, Barak Democratic Front (BDF), aiming to highlight concerns regarding the reduction in the number of seats in the Assam assembly from 15 to 13 for the Barak Valley.
Expressing disappointment over the draft delimitation proposal, various organizations, political parties, and leaders, including those from the ruling BJP in the region, have voiced their discontent. Pradip Dutta Roy, the chief convenor of BDF, stated that the bandh has been called in the interest of the people of the valley.
Karimuddin Barbhuyan, an AIUDF MLA from Assam, emphasized the disappointment among Barak Valley residents, calling the decision to deduct two assembly seats unscientific and unethical. He urged the Election Commission to reconsider and maintain the current number of seats in the Barak Valley.
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In response to the opposition, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma dismissed concerns, asserting that those protesting the draft delimitation proposal lack understanding of the process or fear electoral defeat. He defended the proposal and claimed that there are no issues with it.
The draft delimitation proposal, published on June 20 by the Election Commission, suggests no changes in the number of assemblies and Lok Sabha seats in Assam, maintaining 126 and 14 seats respectively. However, the proposal includes alterations to the geographical boundaries of most constituencies, while some seats will be eliminated and new ones created.
The 12-hour bandh in the Barak Valley serves as a prominent demonstration of opposition to the draft delimitation proposal, amplifying concerns raised by political parties and leaders. The issue continues to draw attention and debate as stakeholders strive to protect the interests of the people and uphold the democratic process in the electoral system of Assam.
