Kokrajhar witnessed a momentous political event on Sunday as Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) president Hagrama Mohilary was sworn in as the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) for a record fourth consecutive term. The public swearing-in ceremony marked a significant comeback for the BPF, which won 28 of the 40 seats in the recent BTC elections—handing the BJP its first electoral setback in Assam since 2016.
The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Chief Secretary Ravi Kota, with Mohilary taking the pledge in English and his deputy, Rihon Daimary, in the Bodo language, symbolizing the region’s strong cultural identity. The event was attended by an impressive array of dignitaries, including Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, several state cabinet ministers, and Tripura royal scion and Tipra Motha chief Pradyut Debbarman.
Although the BPF has not yet officially joined the NDA, Mohilary made his position clear—stating that the UPPL must exit the alliance before any formal entry of his party could be considered. Despite this political condition, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma assured that coordination between the state government and BTC administration would remain unhindered, emphasizing that “development and governance will continue smoothly, irrespective of alliance politics.”
Opening his address with a symbolic reference to the rain-soaked ceremony, Mohilary said the showers were “blessings washing away the pollutants,” marking a fresh start for Bodoland. “As BPF, we will put our best efforts to address the issues faced by the people of Bodoland. For this, we will need full cooperation from the Assam government, ministers, and officials,” he stated, urging the CM’s continued assistance for “peaceful and effective administration” in the BTC region.
In his remarks, CM Sarma reaffirmed the government’s commitment: “The Assam government will extend complete support to Hagrama Mohilary’s administration. We hope the new BTC leadership will strengthen the peace process and accelerate development in the region.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a message shared on X, congratulated Mohilary and pledged continued support from both the Central and State governments to realize the vision of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma. Expressing gratitude, Mohilary promised to contribute towards the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat’, seeking the Prime Minister’s guidance for holistic and inclusive development in Bodoland.
Highlighting the diversity of the region, CM Sarma reminded the new BTC leadership of its responsibility towards all 26 tribes and communities residing in the council areas. He urged them to ensure effective implementation of government schemes and work to fulfill the aspirations of every community under the BTC’s jurisdiction.
