Opposition Leader Urges Restoration of Mahatma Gandhi Statue Amid Controversy

Debabrata Saikia, the Leader of Opposition in the State Legislative Assembly, has called upon Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to restore the life-size statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Doomdooma Town. The statue was recently removed by the Doomdooma civic body to make way for a clock tower, sparking controversy and criticism.

In his letter to the Chief Minister, Saikia expressed concern over the unilateral decision to remove the statue without consulting stakeholders. He emphasized the symbolic importance of Mahatma Gandhi’s statue, especially during the Amrit Mohotsav commemorating India’s independence struggle. Saikia suggested that alongside the clock tower, statues of other freedom fighters should also be erected to honor their contributions.

Saikia criticized the move as potentially motivated by a desire to diminish Gandhi’s memory, alleging a narrow political motive behind the decision. He highlighted the need for preserving historical symbols and respecting the legacy of national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi in public spaces.