A book throwing light on Dima Hasao, its people, society, insurgency and developmental efforts was launched in the city on Saturday. Authored by veteran journalist Wasbir Hussain, the book titled Power Play in Assam Hills: Aspirations, Development & Politics in Dima Hasao was released by Dr Mridul Hazarika, Vice Chancellor of Gauhati University. Aruradha Sarma Pujari, author and editor Sadin, Debojeet Thaosen and Former Chief Executive Member of NC Hills Autonomous District Council were present as guests of honour. The event was presided over by Prasanta Rajguru, Editor, Amar Asom.
Releasing the book, Dr Mridul Hazarika, Vice Chancellor, Gauhati University, said that the book is a micro level study of Dima Hasao, a beautiful region inflicted by insurgency violence. “Loaded with facts and findings, Power Play in Assam Hills will help university students, apart from others, for further research in this mostly unexplored area of Dima Hasao,” he said.
Published by Guwahati-based publishing house Wordweaves India, the book is a short compendium on the history of the southern Assam district and its people, touching on the reign of the Dimasa kings, the British annexation of the area, the scene just prior to India’s Independence and the situation after 1947.
Starting with North Cachar Hills getting its first District Council in 1952, the book covers Council politics till mid-2016. Along the way, the book touches upon the autonomy movement, the political instability, the rise of insurgency, the peace process, leading to the signing of the peace agreement with the rebel Dima Halam Daogah (DHD) groups and attempts by the Council in bringing about a turnaround.
Commenting on the book, Hussain, who has authored or edited around two dozen books so far, said, “The variety of people with rich culture who live in Dima Hasao makes the place an ethnic mosaic. But, what saddens me is the continuing underdevelopment and political instability in the District Council. The need of the hour for Dima Hasao is development and peace and everybody must work towards that.” Anuradha Sarma Pujari, Prasanta Rajguru and Debojeet Thaosen also shared their views during the launch.
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