"We are not recognized": Blind street singer Latif Ali slams Assam Govt for lack of aid

JORHAT: Rendition of Bihu classics such as "Aasin Ayang" by blind street performer Latif Ali brought residents of Upper Assam's Jorhat town to their feet earlier today. Ali, a roving artist who has performed all over Assam, in turn, lamented that the Government has turned its blind eye towards him as well as others of his ilk.

Ali, no stranger to Assam's music-loving denizens, today churned out popular songs, even as people went about their everyday business on the streets. Soon enough, a sizable crowd had gathered around the artist, who delivered his performance with zest and zeal in spite of his disability.

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Ali, an original resident of Nalbali district in Lower Assam, disclosed to media that he fends for his family through his musical performances.

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"What can one do? The Government does not give us anything. Therefore, this is how I have to earn my keep," he lamented.

Latif Ali further informed that he has exhorted the Government to help the blind folks. "We have requested the Government to help us so that we are able to survive. The Government is non-existent. The only Government here is the public. They help us by paying us around 20-30 rupees," he said.

Ali, who says that he has performed in almost all the districts of Assam, says he will be headed to Sivasagar district next.

The street singer finally signed off with 'Manuhe Manuhor Baabe": (People for People) by Bhupen Hazarika, an immortal classic that speaks of benevolence from humans towards other humans.

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