Language Rights Protection is a Year-Round Commitment, says Veteran Activist Satu Roy

Satu Roy calls for unity on language rights. Beyond May 19, youth must lead the movement for Bengali identity in Barak Valley.

Sribhumi : The struggle for language rights in Barak Valley should not be confined to the ceremonial observations of May 18 or 19. Veteran activist Satu Roy has issued a powerful call to the community, emphasizing that the true tribute to the martyrs lies in the continuous defense of our linguistic identity.

"Is organizing a rally on May 18 or a meeting on May 19 the only true appeal of this sacrifice? The martyrs gave their blood for our future. We must ask ourselves how much we have honored that supreme sacrifice today," expressed Roy.

Reflecting on the historical significance, Roy described the 1961 Language Movement as a non-violent yet unprecedented mass revolution. He compared its dignity to the 'Glorious Revolution' of England, noting that it was a revolution of conviction rather than weapons. As the former Secretary of the Karimganj District Committee in 1962, Roy recalled how Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri drew parallels between this movement and Mahatma Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement.

The Growing Threat of Linguistic Aggression

Despite its glorious past, Roy expressed deep concern over the recurring aggression against the Bengali language in the state. From including Assamese in Bengali question papers to other subtle forms of cultural imposition, the veteran leader warned that the rights earned through blood are being violated step by step. He urged the people of Silchar and Karimganj to remain vigilant beyond the anniversary dates, as silence often takes over once the month of May passes.

Engaging the Youth and Ensuring Unity

A central theme of Roy's message was the involvement of the younger generation. He stressed that the history of the 15 martyrs must be effectively communicated to the youth.

"Simply chanting slogans like 'Martyrs, we shall not forget you' is not enough. We must instill the history and the purpose of this struggle into the minds of the new generation," Roy asserted.

Addressing the current social climate, Roy lamented the divisions within the Bengali community. Citing noted essayist Sujit Choudhury, he mentioned that the fragmentation based on religious identities is weakening the collective strength of the people. He called for a renewed unity based on language rather than religion to safeguard the future of the community.

Upcoming Programs in Sribhumi and Silchar

In a meeting presided over by Sulekha Dutta Choudhury at Rabindra Sadan College, organizers detailed a three-day program to commemorate the movement. Speakers including Rati Ranjan Sharma, Soumitra Paul, and Arup Roy discussed the significance of the 40th anniversary of July 21.

The schedule includes an art competition and cultural seminars on May 17, followed by the "Procession of 19" on May 18, starting from Shambhu Sagar Park. The observance will culminate on May 19 with floral tributes at the Martyrs' Memorial (Shahid Bedi) and a lamp-lighting ceremony. Roy also suggested a cultural evening dedicated to Bengali songs to make the commemoration truly meaningful.

The organizers are also making efforts to identify and honor surviving activists of the 1961 movement, ensuring that the living legends of this historic struggle receive the respect they deserve.