Gogoi Opposes Assam Government’s Decision to Remove Name of Former President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed

Gaurav Gogoi, the Assam Congress president, has voiced strong opposition against the state government’s recent decision to remove the name of the renowned freedom fighter and former President, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, from Barpeta Medical College. Terming the move as a “grave insult,” Gogoi expressed his concerns on social media.

In his statement, Gogoi highlighted Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed’s significant contributions to the country, noting that he was not only the first Assamese to serve as the fifth President of India but also a respected leader. He questioned the rationale behind removing the name of such an esteemed figure from an institution that was intended to honor his legacy.

Gogoi further suggested that this removal might be indicative of a broader attempt by the state government to engage in communal politics, aimed at polarizing voters along religious lines. He expressed concern over what he described as a possible strategy by the Chief Minister to sway public sentiment for electoral gains.

Addressing the gravity of the situation, Gogoi remarked, “This attempt by the Assam government to erase the name of a prominent Assamese personality like Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed is not only unfortunate but also a blatant disrespect to both the former President and a notable freedom fighter.” He emphasized that such actions signify a lack of regard for historical figures whose contributions form a vital part of Assam’s narrative.

In light of these developments, Gogoi urged the Assam government to rethink its decision. He called for the preservation of Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed’s legacy, insisting that the name should continue to be associated with Barpeta Medical College. He stressed the importance of honoring Assam’s history and the contributions of its illustrious citizens.

Responding to the controversy, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the name change was a deliberate decision taken by the government, for which he accepts full responsibility. Sarma claimed that the local community in Barpeta was supportive of the change.

As the situation continues to unfold, the discourse around this decision reveals underlying tensions regarding historical memory and representation in Assam. The reactions from both the opposition and the ruling party indicate the significance of Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed’s legacy in the region’s socio-political fabric.

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