Which freedom fighter of Assam played a crucial role in independence and became the CM?

Which freedom fighter of Assam played a crucial role in independence and became the CM?
Posted on 30-05-2023

Which prominent freedom fighter from Assam played a crucial role in India's independence movement and later became the Chief Minister of the state?

A prominent freedom fighter from Assam: Gopinath Bordoloi

  • Gopinath Bordoloi, also known as Lokapriya Bordoloi, was a prominent freedom fighter from Assam.
  • He played a crucial role in India's independence movement and later became the Chief Minister of the state.
  • Bordoloi actively joined the Indian National Congress (INC) and participated in civil disobedience, boycotts, and non-cooperation movements.
  • He played a significant role in the Quit India Movement launched by the INC in 1942.
  • After India gained independence in 1947, Bordoloi became the first Chief Minister of Assam.
  • As Chief Minister, he focused on infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and agriculture.
  • Bordoloi worked towards the integration of princely states in Assam into the Indian Union.
  • He emphasized social justice and worked for the upliftment of marginalized communities.
  • Bordoloi's tenure witnessed progress in education, with the establishment of schools, colleges, and universities, and the promotion of Assamese as the state language.
  • He advocated for unity and communal harmony, promoting integration among different ethnic and linguistic communities.
  • Gopinath Bordoloi's contributions and leadership continue to inspire generations in Assam.

Gopinath Bordoloi, popularly known as Lokapriya Bordoloi, was a prominent freedom fighter from Assam who played a crucial role in India's independence movement and later became the Chief Minister of the state. Born on June 6, 1890, in Raha, Nagaon district, Assam, Gopinath Bordoloi dedicated his life to the service of the nation. Here is a detailed account of his contributions and achievements:

Early Life and Education:

  • Gopinath Bordoloi hailed from a middle-class Assamese family. His father, Anandaram Borooah, was a lawyer and a social worker who played an influential role in shaping Gopinath's outlook.
  • Bordoloi completed his primary education at Raha and later moved to Calcutta (now Kolkata) for higher studies.
  • In Calcutta, he joined Presidency College and obtained a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. He continued his studies at the University of Calcutta, where he completed his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree.

Entry into Politics and Freedom Struggle:

  • Inspired by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and influenced by the Swadeshi movement, Gopinath Bordoloi actively joined the Indian National Congress (INC) and became involved in the freedom struggle.
  • He played a significant role in organizing the civil disobedience movement, boycotts, and non-cooperation movements in Assam.
  • Bordoloi actively participated in the Quit India Movement launched by the INC in 1942, advocating for the complete independence of India from British rule.
  • As a leader of the freedom movement in Assam, Bordoloi faced numerous challenges, including arrests, imprisonment, and repression by the British authorities.

Role in Assam's Political and Social Reforms:

  • After India gained independence in 1947, Gopinath Bordoloi emerged as a key political figure in Assam.
  • He was instrumental in shaping the political landscape of the state and worked tirelessly to promote the interests of Assam and its people.
  • Bordoloi played a crucial role in the integration of the princely states of Assam into the Indian Union, ensuring their accession to the newly independent nation.
  • He also worked towards the upliftment of marginalized communities, addressing issues of social inequality, and promoting social justice.
  • Bordoloi played a pivotal role in the formation of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) and became its first president.

Chief Minister of Assam:

  • In 1946, Gopinath Bordoloi became the first Chief Minister of Assam after the state's reorganization.
  • As Chief Minister, he focused on various aspects of governance, including infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and agriculture.
  • Bordoloi's tenure witnessed significant progress in the fields of education, with the establishment of schools, colleges, and universities, and the promotion of Assamese as the state language.
  • He emphasized the importance of unity and communal harmony, working towards the integration of various ethnic and linguistic communities in Assam.
  • Bordoloi served as Chief Minister until his death on August 5, 1950, leaving behind a lasting legacy of leadership and commitment to the welfare of the people.

Recognition and Legacy:

  • Gopinath Bordoloi is widely regarded as one of the most influential leaders from Assam, known for his integrity, vision, and dedication to public service.
  • He earned the title of "Lokapriya," meaning "Beloved of the People," in recognition of his immense popularity and contributions to Assam.
  • In honor of his contributions, the Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam's capital, is named after him.
  • Bordoloi's relentless efforts to promote Assamese culture, protect the state's resources, and advance the interests of the people continue to inspire generations of leaders in Assam.

Please note that this summary provides a comprehensive overview of Gopinath Bordoloi's life and contributions but is not an exhaustive account.

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