Biography of Golap Borbora Ex Chief Minister of Assam

Biography of Golap Borbora Ex Chief Minister of Assam , a prominent figure in the political landscape of Assam, served as the Chief Minister of the Indian state from 1978 to 1979. Known for his significant contributions as a non-Congress leader, Borbora was a staunch follower of Ram Manohar Lohia and Jai Prakash Narayan. Throughout his political career, he actively participated in the freedom movement, leading peasant and trade union movements and facing multiple incarcerations.

Early Life and Education :

Golap Borbora was born on August 29, 1926, in Golaghat, Assam. His early schooling took place in Tinsukia, after which he pursued higher education at the University of Calcutta. Borbora’s parents were Komol Borbora, an executive officer at the Indian Oil Corporation Limited in Digboi, and Puniyaprova Borbora. His father later left his job due to an extended strike in the company.

Coming from a family of ten siblings, Golap Borbora’s sister, Renu Saikia, went on to achieve fame as a prolific actress in the Assamese film industry.

Personal Background :

Golap Borbora was a non-smoker but had a fondness for “paan” (betel leaf) and chai (tea). He married and had four sons, including Arup Borbora, a renowned advocate.

Biography of Golap Borbora Ex Chief Minister of Assam

Political Career :

Inspired by the ideologies of Ram Manohar Lohia and Jai Prakash Narayan, Golap Borbora actively participated in the freedom movement and faced numerous imprisonments. His political career began with his involvement in trade unions, where he championed the cause of workers’ rights and fought for better working conditions.

Borbora’s steadfast dedication to social justice and his leadership skills led to his election as a member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, serving from 1968 to 1974.

During the period of Indira Gandhi’s Emergency in 1975, Golap Borbora was arrested for opposing her regime and spent 18 months in Tihar Jail. Following his release, he became the State unit president of the Janata Party in 1977. Under his leadership, the Janata Party won 53 seats in the elections and Borbora was unanimously elected as the Chief Minister of Assam in 1978, becoming the state’s first non-Congress Chief Minister.

Accomplishments and Challenges :

Golap Borbora’s tenure as Chief Minister lasted for 18 months, during which he implemented several significant reforms. His government aimed to curb the influx of illegal immigrants from neighboring countries and sought to demonopolize the liquor trade in tea garden belts.

Some notable achievements of his government included the exemption of land revenue for farmers owning up to 10 bighas of land. Additionally, the government ordered fee exemptions for school students up to the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) level and extended this privilege to all girls up to high school level. Moreover, free medical treatment was introduced in all government hospitals, and the government facilitated the free movement of food grains within the state.

However, the Janata Party Government faced challenges that contributed to its short tenure. The efforts to address the issue of illegal immigration and break the liquor monopoly faced opposition from vested interests. Despite these challenges, Golap Borbora remained committed to his principles and worked diligently to uplift the state and its people.

Biography of Golap Borbora Ex Chief Minister of Assam

Later Years and Legacy :

After his time as Chief Minister, Golap Borbora spent his remaining years away from active politics. He continued to contribute to various social and educational institutions and was associated with the North East Frontier Railway Employees’ Union and other labor organizations.

In an effort to commemorate Golap Borbora’s contributions and keep his legacy alive, the College Students Welfare Committee (CSWC), an NGO, established the C.S.W.C Golap Borbora Scholarship Programme. This program extends scholarship assistance to meritorious students. Additionally, the CSWC hosts the annual C.S.W.C Golap Borbora Memorial Lecture, honoring the former Chief Minister.

Conclusion:

Golap Borbora’s political career as the first non-Congress Chief Minister of Assam left an indelible mark on the state’s history. His commitment to social justice, advocacy for workers’ rights, and efforts to address significant issues shaped the political landscape of Assam. The commemorative efforts made by organizations today testify to his lasting influence and contributions.

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