In Conversation with Lurinjyoti Gogoi- President of AJP and Former AASU General Secretary

Edited by – Robin Bhuyan (Editor-in-Chief)

Written by – Manish Das 

Interviewed by – Naba Kumar Sharma

Lurinjyoti Gogoi is a political leader from Assam, who was once the general secretary of the AASU (All Assam Student Union). He rose to prominence in 2021, after the formation of the AJP (Axom Jatiya Parishad), just before the 2021 Assembly Elections of Assam. Let us have a discussion with Mr Gogoi regarding his thoughts on the major problems in Assam, as well as his thoughts on the future of the party.

I would like to ask you about your journey. You started as a student, then became a student leader, and later got involved with Assam Jatiya Parishad. Could you share a brief overview of your journey?

Every journey begins with student life. It’s during this phase that ideals take root in one’s life, forming the philosophies that resonate most strongly. Personally, I feel I was a bright student, but it was a growing awareness of societal consciousness that ignited my journey.

You are currently the President of Assam Jatiya Parishad, a significant political party in Assam. What strategies do you have to strengthen and solidify the party’s presence?

Strengthening a political party requires meticulous organizational skill. People gradually come to understand the party’s ideals, vision, and plans. The conscious and educated individuals seek information through various channels, including social media, electronic media, and print media. Our focus lies in addressing the fundamental issues faced by the people.

Considering the future, what impacts do you foresee the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) having on Assam?

The CAA is poised to have profound impacts on Assam’s society, politics, and socio-economy. This Act introduces a social perspective to the identification of foreigners, differentiating between Hindus and Muslims. Citizenship is granted to Hindus up until 2014, but not to Muslims. This disparity is a matter of deep concern. In addition, it is a huge concern for the people of Assam. This influences Assam’s territorial integrity, as the foreigners from Bangladesh, after receiving voting power here, will be able to decide and influence several factors in Assam. The Assamese people will become a minority in their own land.

Assam grapples with numerous issues. In your view, what is the most pressing problem requiring immediate attention?

Assam confronts a myriad of burning issues, particularly those tied to the region’s politics, society, and culture. Illegal infiltration, the government’s employment policies towards them, or the disregard of these issues constitute our core problems. Furthermore, the rising prices, taxes, and escalating costs of essential commodities and medicines have left the common people severely affected.

Highlighting the government’s shortcomings, where do you perceive their failures, whether in processes or departments?

There is a lack of price control, inadequate flood management, and absence of scientific approaches. The National Register of Citizens (NRC) remains incomplete, and Article 6 of the Assam Accord remains unimplemented. Securing of the Indo-Bangladesh border hasn’t been achieved. Claims of eradicating drugs also seem dubious, and new issues are emerging.

Have you observed any positive achievements of the present government?

Certainly, some developmental strides have been taken. Guwahati’s progress and swift completion of essential projects such as the flyovers in a short time are notable achievements. Prioritizing such initiatives for Assam is essential. Ratan Tata’s establishment of cancer institutes was also a good step. These endeavors hold significant promise.

Assam’s economy faces instability. What measures do you propose to improve the economic scenario?

The weakened economy of Assam stems from several reasons. Despite abundant resources, production and capital growth have lagged. The state must invest more in increasing production capacity. Agricultural dependence persists, lacking access to irrigation. Farmers suffer from inadequate pricing and insufficient food storage.

Lastly, could you elaborate on why you seek the support of the people of Assam for Assam Jatiya Parishad over other parties?

Assam Jatiya Parishad is grounded in regionalism that connects with the collective aspirations and dreams of Assam’s diverse populace. We aim to advance on behalf of Assam, addressing the core concerns of its people. Our vision encompasses safeguarding our language, culture, economy, and politics, ensuring justice and eradicating communalism. These ideals form the cornerstone of our fight for a better future.