Not only the government functions, but also the private programmes for the observation of the Day were flocked by conscious citizens of the region. Mentionable that five armed outfits of Northeast called for a general strike (starting from 1 am to 6.30 pm of August 15) to boycott all the celebrations of India's Independence Day in the region.
The separatist groups including the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), the Kamatapur Liberation Organisation (KLO), the Manipur People's Liberation Front (MPLF) and the Tripura People's Democratic Front (TPDF), said in a joint statement that they called upon the people to boycott and prevent the celebration (of I-Day) as a mark of solidarity against New Delhi.
![]() |
The Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi unfurled the national flag at Latashil playground. Addressing the gathering, Gogoi urged the separatist groups to come forward for peace talks. He also asserted violence and insurgency cannot help solving any problem of the State. "Assam's problems cannot be solved through violence and militancy. Only through the democratic process, developmental schemes and work can its problems be solved," he commented adding, "Due to militancy many innocent people died, several rendered disabled for life, women became widows and children orphans.
![]() |
Rupam Baruah, a Guwahati based senior journalist, argues that the national flag symbolizes the spirit of a nation that fought for independence from the clutches of the British imperialism. "Tricolour is the symbol of our common strength," asserted Baruah adding, "On the two very special days (15 August and 26 January), related to our freedom-struggle, we hoist and salute the National Flag to pay our heartfelt homage to those countless patriots and martyrs who suffered and laid down their lives for motherland's freedom. Because of their sacrifice we live today a free people."
Nava Thakuria is a Guwahati, Northeast India based independent journalist and contributes to various media outlets throughout the world. Contact him at navathakuria@yahoo.com