President Droupadi Murmu has postponed her scheduled visit to Assam for the second time, citing unforeseen official obligations. The rescheduling has raised curiosity and speculation, especially among state officials and the people of Assam who were awaiting her arrival.
According to sources close to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President had originally planned to arrive in Assam to attend key developmental and ceremonial events. However, changes in her itinerary forced a deferment. Officials have yet to confirm the new dates.
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Repeated Postponement Raises Eyebrows
This marks the second time President Murmu has delayed her Assam visit. Her first visit, initially planned for earlier this year, was postponed due to pressing engagements in New Delhi.
State officials, including those in the Governor’s and Chief Minister’s offices, had made elaborate arrangements in anticipation of her arrival. The sudden change led to a flurry of coordination among local authorities who had prepared a detailed reception and a packed itinerary.
What Was Planned in Assam
President Murmu was expected to inaugurate several key infrastructure and educational projects across Guwahati and other parts of Assam. These included:
- Laying the foundation stone for a new central university campus.
- Launching welfare schemes for tea garden workers.
- Meeting state dignitaries and cultural leaders.
The visit was also seen as an opportunity to strengthen Centre-state relations and spotlight Assam’s role in the larger “Act East” policy framework.
Disappointment Among Locals and Officials
Locals, especially students and members of the tea garden communities, expressed disappointment over the repeated delays. Many were preparing to welcome her with cultural programs and local celebrations. Some educational institutions had even declared holidays in anticipation of her arrival.
“Her presence would have meant a lot for our institution. We had prepared for days,” said a principal of a college in Guwahati.
Official Sources Offer Clarification
A senior government official stated that the President Murmu Assam visit remains a priority and will happen soon. “There’s no cancellation, only a rescheduling. Once her commitments in the capital ease, a new date will be announced,” the source said.
The Rashtrapati Bhavan has not released an official statement, but sources indicate that the President is keen to fulfill her commitment to the state.
CM Sarma’s Response
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma responded with understanding and optimism. He emphasized that Assam welcomes the President at her convenience and reaffirmed the state’s full readiness to host her at any time.
“The people of Assam hold the President in high regard. We understand her national responsibilities and are confident she’ll visit soon,” he said.
A Look at Her Previous Northeast Engagements
Since assuming office, President Murmu has shown active interest in the Northeast. She has already visited states like Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Tripura, where she engaged with students, tribal leaders, and women entrepreneurs.
Her visits have often included messages of inclusion, development, and environmental protection — themes that resonate deeply with Northeast India’s aspirations.
Political Reactions Mixed
While BJP leaders reiterated their respect for the President’s schedule, opposition parties criticized the lack of transparency in the repeated postponements.
An opposition spokesperson stated, “It’s unfortunate that the people are left in uncertainty. We respect her schedule, but a clear explanation would help avoid speculation.”
Awaiting New Schedule
As Assam waits for a fresh date, expectations remain high. The postponed visit has not dampened the enthusiasm of those eager to welcome the country’s first tribal woman President.
With developmental projects pending inauguration and cultural programs already rehearsed, the people of Assam are simply waiting for the green signal from Rashtrapati Bhavan.
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