Controversy Erupts Over Assamese Essay Book in Dhubri
Public Outcry Over Misrepresentation of Bihu
The book, titled Sahaj Byakaran aru Rachana, with serious factual errors and published in Dhubri (Photo: AT)
Dhubri, May 20: A recent report has highlighted significant inaccuracies and misleading representations of Bihu in an Assamese essay book aimed at school students, sparking a strong backlash in Dhubri. This has led to a police complaint filed by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and a formal memorandum submitted to the district administration by prominent social worker Simul Sarkar.
The controversy centers around the grammar and essay book, titled Sahaj Byakaran aru Rachana, which is intended for students in Classes VI, VII, and VIII. Published by New Mohammadia Pustakalay of Dhubri, the book contains serious factual errors and objectionable content regarding Bihu and Assamese culture.
Following the publication of the report, the Dhubri unit of ABVP lodged a formal complaint at the local police station, calling for immediate legal action against the author, publisher, distributor, and any book stalls involved in its distribution.
In their complaint, ABVP emphasized that Bihu is not just a festival but a vital aspect of Assamese identity and heritage. They argued that the dissemination of distorted information in a book meant for students could lead to misunderstandings and has deeply offended the sentiments of the Assamese community.
The student organization is demanding the registration of an FIR, the confiscation of all copies of the book from the market, a thorough investigation into its content, and legal action against all parties responsible for its publication and distribution.
In addition to the ABVP's actions, Simul Sarkar has also approached the District Commissioner of Dhubri with a memorandum requesting urgent intervention. In this document, Sarkar condemned the alleged misrepresentation of Bihu and Assamese traditions as a serious affront to the cultural identity of the State. He noted that similar issues with the same publishing house had arisen previously, suggesting a pattern of misinformation targeting Assamese culture among young learners.
The memorandum calls for an immediate halt to the circulation and sale of the book, the initiation of strict legal measures against those responsible, and the formation of an expert committee comprising educators, literary figures, and cultural specialists to review such publications before they reach students.
This incident has ignited widespread discussions throughout Dhubri and beyond regarding the necessity for more rigorous oversight of educational materials related to Assamese history, literature, and culture.
Authorities from the police and district administration have indicated that they are currently investigating the matter.