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Chirang, Feb 2: In light of the recent tensions in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) regarding alleged land encroachments, Hagrama Mohilary, the Chief of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), expressed his disapproval of the proposed Special Revision (SR) in the Sixth Schedule area, labeling it as "unnecessary and against" the principles of the Bodo Peace Accord.

Mohilary emphasized that the peace accord, which was officially enacted, granted legal recognition to all individuals residing in the region at the time of its signing.

"Everyone who was living here when the accord was finalized is a legitimate resident of the BTR. We believe that honoring this decision and the accord eliminates the need for a Special Revision in this area," he stated.

These comments were made during the inauguration of three significant development initiatives totaling Rs 130 crore in Chirang district, Assam.

The projects include a Traditional Food Park in Ballamguri, with an estimated cost of Rs 50 crore; the Udangshri Alari Prem Singh Brahma Auditorium Hall in Kajalgaon, costing Rs 30 crore; and a Bodoland Eco Resort at Dadgiri near the Bhutan border, projected to cost Rs 50 crore.

Regarding the food park, Mohilary noted that the initiative was originally launched during the Pramod Boro-led BTC administration but faced delays due to a lack of funding.

"The project was initiated earlier, but funding was not approved. In the interest of social welfare, we revisited it and sought financial support from the government. Now that the funds have been allocated, we have commenced construction," he explained.

Due to workforce limitations, Mohilary mentioned that the food park will be developed through a public-private partnership (PPP) model.

"We are experiencing a manpower shortage. Thus, the project will be leased to private firms under a PPP framework," he added.

On the topic of political representation, Mohilary downplayed the importance of Rajya Sabha seats for the BTC amidst ongoing discussions about three vacant Upper House positions from Assam.

"What is the necessity for Rajya Sabha seats for us? Our primary focus is the BTC. Whether representation is directed to Delhi or Dispur is inconsequential," he remarked.

Reaffirming the council's stance on governance, Mohilary stated that the BTC does not hold authority over electoral matters.

"All we have requested from the Assam Chief Minister is to honor the Bodo Peace Accord signed on February 10, 2003. In this context, there is no requirement for any Special Revision," he concluded.