Silchar, Cachar: The Sammilita Sanskritik Mancha has officially launched its month-long commemorative program to pay tribute to the 11 brave souls who sacrificed their lives for the Bengali language on May 19, 1961.
Announcing the schedule titled "Rabindranath in our Hearts, May 19 in our Consciousness," the organization emphasized that the Language Martyrs Day is not merely a historical event but a symbol of ongoing resistance against linguistic aggression. The Mancha's President, Biswajit Das, remarked that the 1961 struggle was deeply political and born out of a conspiracy against linguistic rights.
The Grand Procession : Mahapathachala on May 17
A major highlight of this Silchar news update is the "Mahapathachala" (Grand Procession) scheduled for May 17 at 3:30 PM. The march will commence from Rangirkhari Point and conclude at the Silchar District Sports Association ground. The Mancha has invited all ethnic and religious communities to join hands, echoing the unity seen sixty-five years ago.
The movement of 'Unish' was never for one community; it was a secular struggle where people from all walks of life stood together for their mother tongue, stated President Biswajit Das.
Standing Against Cultural Dominance in Barak Valley
During the press conference, leaders expressed grave concerns over the current Barak Valley news landscape regarding the Bengali language. They pointed out that Bengali is being systematically sidelined in official government work. The Mancha also highlighted the government's failure to release the Mehrotra Commission report or grant official recognition to the martyrs.
The organization warned against the "one language, one culture" ideology, describing it as a threat to the region’s multicultural fabric. General Secretary Ajay Roy and Vice President Manoj Deb reiterated that the May 19 movement remains a powerful chapter of protest and unity, rather than just a festival of joy.
A Month of Cultural and Social Services
The Cachar news calendar for May is packed with diverse events. From celebrating the birth anniversaries of legends like Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, and Kazi Nazrul Islam to organizing blood donation camps and art exhibitions, the Mancha aims to keep the spirit of 'Unish' alive.
On the evening of May 19, the Mancha has made a special appeal to the residents of Barak Valley. They have requested everyone to light 11 lamps at their homes and workplaces as a mark of respect for the eleven martyrs who fell to police bullets at the Silchar railway station.
The Mancha concludes with a heartfelt call to action : the legacy of the language movement belongs to everyone, and staying united is the only way to preserve our birthright—the right to speak our mother tongue.
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