Assam's Assam Accord Verdict Echoes Mixed Emotions

Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, expressed a mixed reaction to the Supreme Court's verdict on the cut-off date of the Assam Accord. The majority verdict upheld Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, favoring 1971 as the cut-off date, with Sarma emphasizing the community's continued struggle.

In the wake of a significant Supreme Court verdict, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed feelings of both happiness and sorrow. The court upheld the constitutional validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, affirming 1971 as the cut-off date in the Assam Accord.

Sarma addressed reporters, emphasizing the enduring struggles of the Assamese people. He reflected on the mixed emotions tied to the decision, which he hesitated to call historic. The court ruling brings a measure of closure to the longstanding issue of illegal migration in the region.

The Assam Accord, established in 1985 following a violent anti-foreigner movement, aimed to detect and deport foreigners arriving after the cut-off date. This majority verdict reinforces the March 25, 1971, cut-off, aligning with the Accord's stipulations and addressing citizenship concerns.

(With inputs from agencies.)