Union Minister Pabitra Margherita on 30 November praised the Assam government’s decision to grant land rights to tea garden workers and confer Scheduled Tribe (ST) status on six Assamese communities, describing the move as a historic step that fulfils long-standing public aspirations. Speaking to the media during the inauguration of the Tinsukia District Journalists’ Association’s newly built office at Borguri in Tinsukia district, he urged all sections of society to support the smooth implementation of the initiatives.
Margherita said the move marked a transformative moment for tea garden workers, who had lived on estates for over two centuries without land ownership. He noted that more than three lakh workers would benefit from the decision. He added that recognising the six communities as Scheduled Tribes would address another long-pending demand.
The Tinsukia District Journalists’ Association marked its 51st Foundation Day on Sunday with the inauguration of its new office building, constructed at a cost of Rs 25 lakh funded through Margherita’s MP Local Area Development Fund. The event began with a ceremonial ritual and the hoisting of the association’s flag by District President Dr Rishi Das. Senior journalist Himen Bhattacharyya led a tribute in memory of departed members of the fraternity.
A special homage ceremony dedicated to cultural icons Sudhakantha Dr Bhupen Hazarika and singer Zubeen Garg was opened by senior journalist Amulya Khataniar with the lighting of a traditional lamp. Margherita formally opened the new office in the presence of several dignitaries, including Tinsukia Zilla Parishad President Bhadeshwar Moran, retired ADC Yogesh Barua, Tinsukia Municipal Board Chairman Pulak Chetia and Motok Development Council Chairman Saroj Gohain.
To mark the milestone, the association also hosted an interactive session bringing together senior and emerging journalists, underscoring the vital role of the media in strengthening democratic values.
