Assam CM Sarma unveils statue of Iron Man Bishnu Ram Medhi at Hajo

Guwahati (Assam) [India], August 14 (ANI): Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday unveiled a statue of Bishnu Ram Medhi, a staunch freedom fighter, social reformer, former Chief Minister, and first Assamese Governor, often hailed as the Iron Man of Assam, at Bharalitola in Hajo.
Speaking at a programme held on the occasion, Dr Sarma highlighted Bishnu Ram Medhi's significant contributions which have inspired generations of Assamese people. He thanked the committee members responsible for erecting the seven-foot statue and the residents of Hajo for their support in making this vision a reality.
The Chief Minister said that Bharat Ratna Gopinath Bordoloi dreamed of peace and harmonious co-existence among all sections of the people of Assam, and laid the groundwork for a developed Assam.
"Bishnu Ram Medhi subsequently undertook the responsibility of continuing Bordoloi's unfinished work, demonstrating exceptional dedication by transforming challenges into accomplishments. Medhi devoted his life to fostering unity among Assam's diverse communities and inspiring the state to stand with pride. Medhi also worked tirelessly to expel illegal immigrants from the state. Before his death, Medhi donated all his savings to the people of Assam," the Chief Minister said.

The Chief Minister emphasized the crucial roles of Gopinath Bordoloi and Bishnu Ram Medhi in opposing the rehabilitation policy propounded by Sadullah for the migrants.
"The Bordoloi Cabinet declared land occupation in grazing reserves illegal and enacted measures to prevent migrants from settling in tribal areas. Bishnu Ram Medhi was particularly firm against illegal immigration. In the early years of independence, Medhi took decisive legal action to remove illegal occupiers from various locations across Assam. He also amended the Assam Land Revenue Act to protect tribal communities and played a key role as Revenue Minister in shaping significant public welfare legislation, such as the Ceiling Act, Urban Rights Act, Relief Act, and Zamindari Acquisition Act. Under his leadership, the Brahmaputra bridge, Umkru Hydropower Project, and Guwahati Refinery were initiated," he said.
The Chief Minister emphasized Medhi's pioneering role in combating drug abuse, empowering women, supporting khadi, promoting local products, and advocating the boycott of foreign goods during the freedom struggle. Medhi also played a crucial role in investigating and exposing the injustices of the colonial government during the Non-Cooperation Movement.
The Chief Minister announced that the upcoming bridge over the Brahmaputra connecting Palasbari and Sualkuchi would be named in Medhi's honour. Additionally, he approved funding for a memorial compound in Medhi's memory and mentioned that the proposal to rename the Guwahati railway station after Medhi would be submitted to the Union Government.
The Chief Minister noted that Assam may not see another administrator as effective as Bishnu Ram Medhi. He also remarked that the new statue will honour Medhi's legacy and inspire future generations to value his dedication to the state's progress.
The event was attended by MLA Suman Haripriya; Bandana Deka, the granddaughter of Bishnu Ram Medhi; District Commissioner of Kamrup, Keerthi Jalli; President of the Iron Man Bishnu Ram Medhi Statue Construction Committee, Dr Son Chandra Malakar; Secretary Ajit Kumar Medhi, and other distinguished guests.
On the other hand, the Assam Chief Minister visited the Nabagraha Crematorium and dedicated a part of the redevelopment and beautification project including five chitas at the premises of the crematorium in Guwahati on Wednesday.

The Chief Minister also took stock of the ongoing redevelopment and beautification work being undertaken at the crematorium. It may be noted that the entire project is being carried out in three phases which also include the state funeral arena. Dr Sarma directed the PWD, the executing agency to ensure completion of the project within the stipulated timeframe.
He also said that fund will not be a constraint and all necessary steps will be taken to see the project through its conclusion.

Chief Minister Dr Sarma also inspected the progress of the Gopinath Bordoloi Memorial adjacent to the Nabagraha Crematorium and assured all assistance to complete the project in accordance with the family's wish. GMC Mayor Mrigen Sarania, GMC Commissioner Megha Nidhi Dahal and a host of other functionaries were present on the occasion. (ANI)