The Assam Accord stands as a significant agreement in the history of India, aimed at addressing the concerns and aspirations of the people of Assam. It was signed on August 15, 1985, after a period of turmoil in the state, marked by protests and demands for identifying and deporting illegal immigrants. The accord sought to conclude the six-year-long Assam Agitation led by the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) and the All Assam Gana Sangram Parishad (AAGSP). This historical memorandum of settlement involved the Central Government, the State Government of Assam, AASU, and AAGSP, with the intention to ensure peace and development in Assam.
Background of the Assam Accord
The Assam Movement, which started in 1979, was primarily focused on the issue of illegal immigration, which was changing the demographic pattern of the state and affecting its social, cultural and economic fabric. After years of protests, negotiations led to the signing of the Assam Accord. The agreement consists of 15 clauses that address five key areas: the foreigners issue, economic development, restrictions on acquisition of immovable property by foreigners, prevention of encroachment on government lands, and the registration of births and deaths.
Addressing the Foreigners Issue
One of the core focus areas of the Assam Accord was the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants. According to the agreement, those who came to Assam before January 1, 1966, would be recognized as citizens. Those who entered the state between January 1, 1966, and March 24, 1971, would be given all rights as citizens except the right to vote for a period of ten years. The accord also specified that individuals entering after March 24, 1971, would be detected and deported according to law.
Economic Development Initiatives
The Assam Accord promised several economic development measures to uplift the state’s economy and provide employment opportunities to its youth. The central government committed to providing national and international investment in Assam, improving infrastructure, and setting up industries to enhance the state’s productivity and growth.
Restricting Property Acquisition by Foreigners
To protect the interests of the local population, the Assam Accord included provisions to prevent foreigners from acquiring immovable property in Assam. This clause was meant to safeguard the rights and heritage of the indigenous people, ensuring that land ownership remained with those legally entitled to it.
Prevention of Encroachment on Government Lands
The accord addressed the issue of encroachment on government lands, emphasizing the need to preserve such lands for public use and state development projects. It called for the regular monitoring and clearing of encroachments to maintain the integrity of government-owned property.
Registration of Births and Deaths
The accurate registration of births and deaths was highlighted as an essential measure for maintaining records and ensuring the proper implementation of the clauses related to the detection of foreigners. The system would help the state in keeping track of its demographic changes and in planning and executing developmental policies effectively.
Recent Developments
In light of the ongoing challenges in implementing the Assam Accord, the State Government of Assam has constituted a sub-committee to examine and prepare a framework for the implementation of all the clauses. This committee is tasked with reviewing the progress made thus far and suggesting measures to fulfill the commitments laid out in the agreement. The report from this sub-committee is expected within three months, potentially marking a new phase in the implementation of the Assam Accord, over three decades since its inception.
