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 in a school-level Assamese essay book, sparking a strong backlash in Dhubri. The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has lodged a police complaint, while senior social worker Simul Sarkar has submitted a memorandum to the district administration.
The controversy centers around the Assamese grammar and essay book, Sahaj Byakaran aru Rachana, which is intended for students in Classes VI, VII, and VIII. Published by New Mohammadia Pustakalay in Dhubri, the book contains serious factual errors and objectionable content related to Bihu and Assamese culture.
Following the publication of the report, the ABVP's Dhubri district unit filed 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, the ABVP emphasized that Bihu is not just a festival but a vital aspect of Assamese identity and heritage. They argued that the dissemination of misleading information in a book aimed at school students has offended the sentiments of the Assamese community and could lead to misunderstandings among students and the public.
The student organization has demanded the registration of a First Information Report (FIR), the confiscation of all copies of the book from circulation, 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, urging immediate intervention. In his memorandum, Sarkar condemned the alleged misrepresentation of Bihu and Assamese traditions as a serious affront to the cultural sentiments and collective identity of the state. He noted that similar issues with the same publishing house had arisen previously, suggesting a deliberate effort to misinform young students about Assamese culture.
The memorandum calls for an immediate halt to the sale and distribution 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 the situation is currently under review.