Bodo Student Union Raises Alarm Over Removal of Bodo Language Sign in Assam

Guwahati, October 16 (Daily Kiran) : The All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU) has expressed deep concern regarding reports of the removal of a Bodo language sign from the Assam Assembly building. ABSU has warned that this incident could reignite calls for a separate Bodoland state.

In a statement released on Friday, ABSU President Kurumdao Bodo described the removal of the sign as a significant issue tied to the linguistic dignity, constitutional recognition, and identity of the Bodo community. He emphasized that despite the Bodo language being included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, this act could be perceived as a denial of the community’s identity and recognition.

Bodo noted that the community has fought for decades for the acknowledgment of their language, culture, and identity. He raised concerns about whether constitutional protections and recognitions are being adequately implemented in practice.

The ABSU leader stated that this controversy extends beyond administrative signals, impacting the community’s status within Assam’s political, cultural, and linguistic landscape. He warned that such incidents could revive memories of historical neglect and amplify concerns about linguistic discrimination.

Bodo further cautioned that if the issues faced by the Bodo community are not addressed, there could be significant political, legal, and social repercussions. He indicated that perceived discrimination could deepen divisions and strengthen demands for greater autonomy.

Highlighting the long-standing aspirations of the Bodo people, he mentioned that the call for a separate Bodoland state could resurface as a viable option to protect the community’s dignity, cultural heritage, and linguistic identity.

He also warned that failure to address these concerns might compel the organization to reconsider the future of its relationship with Assam. Emphasizing the need for meaningful recognition, Bodo called for the implementation of constitutional commitments and respect for the community’s historical struggle for justice and equality.

As of now, there has been no independent verification regarding the alleged removal of the Bodo language display.