Assam: 'Chandubi Festival' Cancelled amid CAA Protests

Guwahati, December 22, 2019:

The 'Chandubi Festival' that is held annually to promote the culture of the indigenous tribes of Assam, has been cancelled amid the ongoing protests against the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act.

A member of the organizing committee of the festival has informed that it has been cancelled expressing solidarity with the people of the State, who have been continually protesting against the Bill-turned-Act.

The laikhuta (inaugural post) of the festival was on November 21, and the festival was slated to be held from January 1-5, but this edition of the festival won't be held.

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It may be mentioned here that the festival aims to promote the bio-diversity and ecology of the south Kamrup area of Assam, and is held every year on the bank of Chandubi Beel in Kamrup. Myriad folk culture of different communities of Assam, their cuisines, and local artifacts are displayed during the festival. Cultural shows, exhibition of ethnic crafts, and boat rides are the highlights of the event, which is frequented by tourists and locals alike, looking to have a good time at the beginning of the year.

At the same time, people across the nation continue to oppose the Citizenship Amendment Act, that seeks to make it easier for non-Muslims from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, to obtain citizenship in India.

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It may be mentioned here that while Uttar Pradesh protests have taken a violent turn, protests in West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Maharashtra and Delhi were peaceful. Students’ bodies, women and other civil and social organisations have continued opposing the Citizenship act across the country.

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