Amit Shah Unveiled Statue of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma

Bodofa Upendranath Brahma, a revered leader of the Bodo community, is widely recognized for his non-violent struggle for tribal identity, rights, and cultural preservation. On May 1, 2025, the Government of India paid tribute by unveiling his statue and naming a major road and rotary in New Delhi after him. This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to tribal empowerment, peacebuilding in the North East, and acknowledging grassroots leaders who shaped regional movements with national impact.

Why in the News?

On May 1, 2025, Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled a 9-feet-high statue of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma in New Delhi, and a road and rotary were named in his honor. This was done on the occasion of his 35th death anniversary, acknowledging his significant contributions to tribal rights, identity, and peaceful activism, especially for Bodoland and the Bodo community.

Aim of the Tribute

• To commemorate Bodofa Upendranath Brahma’s contributions to the Bodo and wider tribal community.
• To recognize his peaceful leadership and emphasize the importance of cultural identity in nation-building.
• To strengthen national integration through acknowledgment of regional leaders.

Significance

• Represents tribal self-respect and identity at the national level.
• Encourages peaceful activism and dialogue-based resolutions.
• Promotes awareness of North East India’s contribution to India’s socio-political fabric.

Background

• Upendranath Brahma (1956–1990) was the President of the All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU).
• He led a peaceful movement demanding a separate Bodoland and rights for Bodo people.
• Popularly known as “Bodofa”, meaning “Father of the Bodos”.

Static Points

• Bodoland is a territorial region in Assam, governed by the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).
• Bathou religion is the traditional belief system of the Bodo people, centered on Sijou plant worship.
• The Bodo Accord 2020 is a peace agreement aimed at ending insurgency and bringing development to Bodo areas.

Key Government Initiatives Mentioned

• 2020 Bodo Accord: 96% of its provisions already fulfilled.
• Over 20 peace accords signed in the North East since 2014.
• More than 10,000 militants surrendered, integrating into the mainstream.
• 78% implementation rate of North East peace accords in last 3–4 years.

Wider Impact

• Enhances the national visibility of tribal and North Eastern heroes.
• Encourages youth to follow democratic and peaceful paths for change.
• Reinforces India’s policy of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” in tribal welfare.