Assam observes Swahid Diwas; memorial inaugurated

GUWAHATI- Assam on Wednesday observed Swahid Diwas 2025, paying solemn tribute to the more than 860 martyrs of the Assam Movement (1979–1985) who laid down their lives defending the state’s cultural and demographic identity. The day, observed annually on December 10, marks the death anniversary of Khargeswar Talukdar, the first martyr of the movement.

The central ceremony this year was the inauguration of the Swahid Smarak Kshetra at Paschim Boragaon, Guwahati, built as the state’s first official memorial honouring Assam Movement martyrs. Constructed over 150+ bighas at a cost of around Rs 170 crore, the memorial complex features a monumental Swahid Stambha, thematic museum galleries documenting the movement, busts of martyrs, and cultural spaces for academic research and youth engagement.

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Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the memorial, lit the eternal flame, and symbolically lit 860 earthen lamps in remembrance. Calling the day a “holy occasion,” Sarma appealed to citizens not to sell land to unknown groups or employ them in local enterprises — reiterating protection of Assam’s indigenous rights. He said the martyrs’ sacrifice continues to guide the state’s consciousness and cultural pride.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), also remembered the martyrs, stating,
“Today, on Swahid Diwas, we recall the valour of all those who were a part of the Assam Movement. The Movement will always have a prime place in our history. We reiterate our commitment to fulfilling the dreams of those who participated in the Assam Movement, notably the strengthening of Assam’s culture and the all-round progress of the state.”

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Observances were held across all districts and subdivisions, where people offered floral tributes, sang the patriotic anthem “Swahid Pranamu Tumak,” and watched live telecasts of the Guwahati ceremony. Various leaders including Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, AASU representatives, and cultural organisations took part in commemorative events.

Swahid Diwas 2025 not only marked remembrance of martyrs but renewed public resolve to preserve Assamese identity, language, and land, aligning with the aspirations of those who lost their lives during the movement. The newly inaugurated Swahid Smarak Kshetra is expected to become a landmark of remembrance and reflection, ensuring that the sacrifices of the Assam Movement remain etched into collective memory for generations.