Guwahati, Jan 30: In a landmark move, the Assam Legislative Assembly will hold its first-ever outstation session in Kokrajhar on February 17, marking a historic moment in the state’s parliamentary history. The first day of the Budget Session 2024 will take place outside the traditional Assembly premises for the first time.
“This will be a historic day for Assam. Never before has the Assam Legislative Assembly convened outside its permanent session hall,” Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary told reporters on Thursday.
Daimary emphasized that the outstation session aims to bring the legislative process closer to the people, fostering awareness of parliamentary democracy. “People should understand the debates in the Assembly, the bills we pass, and the decisions taken by their representatives.
Without this awareness, citizens cannot effectively voice their opinions or hold the government accountable,” he said. The Speaker further added that transparency is key to a successful democracy. “When citizens actively participate in governance, it ensures that government policies and programs reflect the real needs of the people.
This session in Kokrajhar will strengthen the connection between the government and the people of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).” The first day’s session will feature the Governor’s address, followed by a debate on the socio-economic development of Sixth Schedule areas. MLAs will discuss the current situation and progress in these autonomous regions, offering suggestions to accelerate development.
Additionally, on February 11, a special interactive session will be held with stakeholders from the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), and Dima Hasao Autonomous Council (DHAC). This engagement will provide MLAs with crucial insights into the issues affecting Sixth Schedule areas, enabling them to effectively represent these concerns in the Assembly.
Daimary expressed confidence that this historic session would bring governance closer to the people and ensure that their voices are heard in policy-making. “Kokrajhar’s session will empower local communities and reinforce the government’s commitment to inclusive development,” he added.