By Anup Biswas

Haflong : The laying of foundation stone of Dimasa Bhawan and Karbi Bhawan  by Amit Shah, Union Minister of Home Affairs, at the national capital, not only represents the landmark achievement for the people of the two hills districts of Assam- Dima Hasao and Karbi  Anglong but also marks the fulfillment of their dream that had been pending since long.

Calling upon the people, Union Minister Amit Shah lauded the Prime Minister that there is no looking back for the people of this nation now, under the leadership of Narendra Modi, as  development is certain. Stating the outlook of the Prime Minister, Shah said, “The progress of Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong has just begun and we will ensure that development is achieved keeping the rich cultural and tradition of these two beautiful and unique hill districts.” He also announced a package of Rs. 130 crore for construction of the two Bhawans at Dwarka.

Praising the Minister of Development of North Eastern Region, (DoNER) Jitendra Singh for the initiative taken to promote the region, the Home Minister assured that their ministry prioritizes the development of these areas. KAAC, CEM, Tuliram Ronghang also submitted a memorandum to press their demand for an autonomous State within Assam under Article 244(A) of the Constitution.

Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also attended the programme and was all praises for Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong and its people. With peace prevailing within the districts now, there can be no hindrance in bringing development in these districts. Praising the rich culture and tradition of the people he also stated that people of Dima Hasao as very warm hearted and energetic.

It is to be noted that a grand celebration was organized at sector-13, Dwarka, New Delhi today hosted by the Chief Executive Members of North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC), Debolal Gorlosa and Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) Tuliram Ronghang. Apart from the Chairpersons, Members and Executive Members of both the Autonomous Councils other VIPs who attended the programme are Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State(I), DoNER, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Assam Minister for Finance etc and convenor, NEDA, Rameshwar Teli, Minister of State, Food Processing Industries, Sum Ronghang, Assam Minsiter for Hills Area Development, others MPs, MLAs, principal secretaries and other officials etc.

This project was a part of the memorandum of settlement (MoS) agreement signed between the government of India and Assam with both factions of Dima Halam Daogah (DHD) militants back in the year 2012, on 8th October. As per the demand, the government of India was to give a project based grant for setting up a Dimasa Bhawan in Delhi and for this purpose, the council will apply for a plot to Delhi Development Authority (DDA). As per the agreement a plot measuring 1000 sq meter has been been provided, construction work of which will soon begin.

Colourful traditional dances were presented as a part of the cultural programme. While the welcome speech was delivered by CEM of Karbi Anglong Tuliram Ronghang, Debolal Gorlosa delivered vote of thanks.