Biography of Sarat Chandra Sinha Ex Chief Minister of Assam

Biography of Sarat Chandra Sinha Ex Chief Minister of Assam (1 January 1914 – 25 December 2005) was an influential Indian politician and a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress, Indian National Congress (Socialist), and later the Nationalist Congress Party. He served as the Chief Minister of Assam and dedicated his life to the welfare of the marginalized and downtrodden people of Indian society. Sinha was known for his integrity, simplicity, and adherence to Gandhian principles throughout his illustrious political career. This biography explores the early life, education, political journey, achievements, and legacy of Sarat Chandra Sinha.

Early Life and Education:

Sarat Chandra Sinha was born into a Rajbanshi family on 1 January 1914 in Bhakatpara village, Chapar, located in the Dhubri district of Assam. Coming from a farming family, Sinha began his schooling in his village and later attended the Indra Narayan Academy Higher Secondary School in Bilasipara, covering a daily distance of 25 km on foot or by bicycle. Even in his early years, Sinha displayed a keen interest in learning and was taught arithmetic by counting footsteps with his father in the weekly village market.

Sarat Chandra Sinha: A Gandhian Politician and Ex-Chief Minister of Assam

He completed his bachelor’s degree from Cotton College in Guwahati and went on to pursue a law degree at Banaras Hindu University. After obtaining his law degree, Sinha returned to Guwahati, practiced law briefly, and then transitioned to a career in teaching. He started as a science teacher in a rural school and later served in various positions, from assistant teacher to headmaster, in the Dhubri district. Sinha’s commitment to Gandhian values was evident in his choice to wear khadi and teach his students the art of making paper from straw.

Biography of Sarat Chandra Sinha Ex Chief Minister of Assam

Political Career:

Sarat Chandra Sinha’s entry into politics was serendipitous. In 1945, he was elected to the Dhubri local board and subsequently brought to Guwahati by veteran Congress leader Mahendra Mohan Choudhury. Choudhury, who later became the Chief Minister of Assam, facilitated Sinha’s nomination as a Congress candidate in the 1946 state Assembly election. During his first campaign, Sinha returned a significant portion of the election campaign expenses provided by the party, demonstrating his commitment to honesty and integrity.

Sinha was elected to the Assam Legislative Assembly four times from the Bilasipara East constituency, serving from 1946 to 1952, 1962 to 1967, 1972 to 1978, and 1985 to 1990. In 1972, he was appointed as the interim Chief Minister of Assam by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and he subsequently won the state elections and served as the elected Chief Minister until 1978.

As Chief Minister, Sinha faced several challenges, including the shifting of the state capital from Shillong to Dispur after the creation of Meghalaya. He also had to address the language agitation in 1972, which demanded the introduction of Assamese as the sole medium of instruction in Assam. Despite these challenges, Sinha implemented various initiatives to strengthen the public distribution system, provide land to landless people, and facilitate bank loans for cultivation. He also focused on infrastructure development, including the establishment of power projects and irrigation systems.

Sinha’s tenure as Chief Minister witnessed the establishment of the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital and the Bongaigaon Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited. He believed in decentralization of power and introduced Panchayati Raj to empower backward communities. Additionally, he laid the foundation for the cooperative movement in Assam, aiming to boost the state’s economy.

Biography of Sarat Chandra Sinha Ex Chief Minister of Assam

Political Challenges and Achievements:

During his tenure as Chief Minister, Sarat Chandra Sinha faced several motions of no-confidence. The first motion was initiated by Gaurisankar Bhattacharyya, citing issues such as the failure to ensure basic necessities for the masses, rising unemployment, high prices of essential commodities, and allegations of corruption and misappropriation of funds. Sinha defended his administration’s policies, highlighting the cooperative movement, agricultural development, and actions taken against corruption.

The second motion of no-confidence was raised on grounds of general failure of administration, particularly in addressing the food crisis and starvation deaths. Sinha’s government faced criticism for allegedly misusing raw materials meant for public projects. Sinha refuted these allegations and assured an inquiry if any misuse had occurred. Both the first and second motions were defeated in the Assembly, highlighting Sinha’s ability to retain the majority’s confidence.

In 1977, a third motion of no-confidence was moved against Sinha’s ministry, with accusations of inciting lawlessness, rebellion, and misuse of funds. The motion highlighted the government’s alleged failure to utilize relief funds for flood-affected areas. Sinha defended his government’s financial position, emphasizing economic discipline and improved ways and means. The motion was also defeated, affirming the continued support for Sinha’s leadership.

Biography of Sarat Chandra Sinha Ex Chief Minister of Assam

Post-Chief Ministership and Legacy:

After serving as Chief Minister, Sarat Chandra Sinha continued his political journey by joining Sharad Pawar’s newly formed Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). He led the NCP in Assam until his passing.

Even in his later years, Sinha remained active and engaged in various activities, including attending literary discussions, drama workshops, and trade union meetings. His dedication to serving the people and advocating for their rights continued to be an integral part of his life.

Sarat Chandra Sinha passed away on 25 December 2005 at the age of 91, just a week before his 92nd birthday. His death marked the end of an era in Assamese politics. Sinha’s contributions to Assam and his commitment to honesty, integrity, and the welfare of the marginalized earned him great respect and admiration.

In recognition of his legacy, a life-size statue of Sarat Chandra Sinha was unveiled by Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal at Ratnapith College in Chapar, Dhubri district, on 28 September 2020. The inauguration of a memorial garden, auditorium, stage, and a renovated house dedicated to Sinha further honored his contributions to the state.

Conclusion:

Sarat Chandra Sinha’s life and political career exemplify the ideals of honesty, simplicity, and integrity. As a true Gandhian, he dedicated himself to the welfare of the marginalized and worked tirelessly to uplift their lives. Sinha’s tenure as Chief Minister of Assam witnessed significant developments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and cooperative movements. His ability to withstand motions of no-confidence and retain the majority’s trust reflects the strong foundation of his leadership.

Sarat Chandra Sinha’s legacy lives on as an inspiration for future generations of leaders, reminding them of the values and principles that can guide effective governance and create lasting positive change in society.

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