Dr. Tuliram Ronghang, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), has urged the Assam government to speed up the implementation of promises made under the Karbi Accord.
On Thursday, Ronghang, alongside leaders of the Forum for Hills Autonomous State Movement (FHASM) Alliance, met Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati.
They submitted a detailed memorandum demanding swift action towards achieving autonomous state status for Karbi Anglong under the provisions of the Indian Constitution.
Read the Karbi Accord document on the Ministry of Home Affairs website.
FHASM Alliance Backs the Demand
The FHASM Alliance is a coalition of 21 organisations that have long advocated for greater autonomy in the hill districts.
These groups believe that only an autonomous state can safeguard the unique identity, culture, and rights of the Karbi people.
During the meeting, the alliance highlighted delays in fulfilling various provisions promised in the Karbi Accord signed in 2021.
An FHASM representative said:
“We want our constitutional rights respected. We want the Karbi Accord fully implemented without further delay.”
What the Karbi Accord Promised
The Karbi Accord, signed in September 2021, was a historic step towards resolving decades of insurgency and discontent in Karbi Anglong.
Key provisions include:
- Greater administrative autonomy under the Sixth Schedule.
- Enhanced financial assistance for development.
- Protection of land, culture, and language.
- Rehabilitation packages for former militants.
So far, some financial grants have been released. But many administrative and legal steps remain pending.
Delay Sparks Frustration
Despite the landmark signing, the slow pace of implementation has caused growing frustration among Karbi leaders and the public.
Local communities feel that promises made to end decades of conflict should not remain on paper.
Ronghang expressed concern that administrative bottlenecks are stalling progress.
Speaking to reporters, he said:
“Our people have waited long enough. We want autonomous status as guaranteed in the Accord. The time to act is now.”
Political Stakes for Assam Government
The demand for an autonomous state carries significant political weight in Assam.
Karbi Anglong and adjoining hill districts have a history of political movements demanding autonomy.
The Karbi Accord was hailed as a solution to longstanding issues.
However, any delay risks reigniting political unrest and could affect electoral dynamics, especially among tribal communities.
A political analyst in Guwahati commented:
“The Karbi Accord was a major achievement for Assam’s peace. The government must ensure it doesn’t lose momentum.”
Development vs Autonomy Debate
While many Karbi groups demand full autonomous statehood, some voices within Assam’s political circles urge caution.
They argue that development projects and governance improvements should take priority before redrawing administrative boundaries.
Critics fear new demands from other hill regions if Karbi Anglong gains full autonomous status.
However, Karbi leaders insist that autonomy is essential for genuine development and preservation of cultural identity.
A member of FHASM said:
“We don’t want to separate from Assam. We want autonomy to decide our own future under the Constitution.”
Response from Assam CM
Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has acknowledged the demands.
He assured Ronghang and the delegation that the government remains committed to fulfilling the Karbi Accord.
However, he urged patience as legal and administrative processes take time.
Sources in the Chief Minister’s Office said discussions with the Central government are ongoing to resolve outstanding issues.
Road Ahead for Karbi Anglong
The meeting between Ronghang and the Assam CM marks an important moment in the Karbi people’s quest for autonomy.
Karbi leaders plan further consultations and mass mobilisations to press their case.
Observers believe that quick action by the state and central governments could prevent fresh tensions and ensure lasting peace.
The FHASM Alliance has warned that if demands are ignored, they may consider democratic protests.
Follow updates on Assam’s political developments at Northeast Today.
For now, the Karbi Accord remains a symbol of hope. But whether it translates into true autonomy depends on swift government action and sustained dialogue.
Karbi Anglong waits for the promises of the Accord to turn into reality.