Silchar: The Barak Democratic Front (BDF) has called for unity ahead of the proposed May 19 rally, urging all sections to come together, setting aside social, political and personal differences.

At a recent meeting held in Silchar, organisers suggested holding a single joint rally on May 19 instead of multiple processions. However, one organisation expressed reservations, as it had already announced a separate programme on May 17. Despite this, BDF appealed to all groups to rise above differences and participate collectively in the May 19 rally.

BDF Media Cell convenor Jaydeep Bhattacharya, in a press statement, said the rally should reflect the unity of the Barak Valley before the entire nation. He expressed hope that organisations planning programmes on other days would also join the May 19 rally to make the initiative meaningful.

He further said that May 19 was not only a movement for the protection of mother tongue rights, but also a symbol of a broader struggle for social and political rights. People from all communities had united against the ruling establishment’s aggression during that time. However, he noted that the movement could not eventually evolve into a larger socio-economic rights movement, which he termed unfortunate.

Bhattacharya stressed that May 19 should not remain confined to a cultural observance but be established as a symbol of the Barak Valley’s collective rights. He questioned why demands such as official recognition of the language martyrs, financial assistance for their families, and naming a “Language Martyrs Station” should not be raised. He also called for strict action against an individual accused of insulting the martyrs.

BDF convenor Hrishikesh Dey said the rally should also raise demands for the restoration of two assembly constituencies that were allegedly reduced from the Barak Valley. He further called for reservation of Grade III and IV government jobs for local youth, along with demands for industrial development, improved healthcare facilities, flood control measures and better connectivity in the region.

He added that May 19 was essentially a political movement, not in a party sense, but as a struggle for linguistic and broader civic rights. According to him, the gradual disconnect from this political essence has reduced its relevance, especially among the younger generation. He urged organisers to highlight these issues through placards, posters and banners during the rally.

The BDF expressed hope that this year’s observance of May 19 would emerge as a strong assertion of the Barak Valley’s socio-economic rights, and appealed to organisers to reflect on these concerns seriously.