ULFA(I) opposes 'Bihar Diwas' in Assam's Tinsukia

The United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent), or ULFA(I), has warned against the celebration of 'Bihar Diwas' in Tinsukia town, Assam. The event is scheduled for March 22 and is supported by local leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). ULFA(I) called the celebration an attack on the culture and identity of local indigenous people. Tinsukia is home to many Hindi speakers, mainly from Bihar and Jharkhand. The group stated that defying their warning could lead to serious consequences. Several student organizations, including the All Assam Students’ Union, have also urged against holding the event. The BJP has had strong support in the region since the 2014 elections, but they face increasing pressure following recent election outcomes where the Congress party made significant gains. The situation highlights the complex mix of identities and political tensions in Assam, especially concerning local and immigrant populations.