Question

Do you agree that the Assam accord was successful in establishing peace and stability in the State ? Support your answer with any two arguments.

Hint:

Key outcome of Assam Accord (1985): March 25, 1971 cutoff date for illegal immigrant identification, protection of Assamese cultural identity (Clause 6), and formation of AGP.

Answer 1

Concept: The Assam Movement (1979--1985) was led by the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) against illegal immigration from Bangladesh. The movement culminated in the signing of the historic Assam Accord in August 1985 between the Rajiv Gandhi-led Central Government and AASU leadership. Position: Yes, the Assam Accord was successful in ending a six-year violent agitation and restoring democratic peace and political stability in Assam. Two Supporting Arguments:
• Termination of Prolonged Violent Agitation and Democratic Transition: The signing of the accord immediately brought an end to six years of strikes, blockades, economic disruptions, and tragic communal violence (such as the Nellie violence). The leaders of AASU formed a political party—Asom Gana Parishad (AGP)—which participated in democratic assembly elections in 1985 and formed the state government, successfully transitioning agitation into democratic governance.
• Establishment of a Institutional Framework for Identification and Cultural Protection: The Accord established a mutually accepted legal cutoff date (March 25, 1971) for identifying illegal immigrants. Furthermore, Clause 6 of the Accord pledged legislative and administrative safeguards to protect, preserve, and promote the cultural, social, and linguistic identity and heritage of the Assamese people, thereby resolving constitutional grievances and stabilizing the region.