'Development will resolve militancy issues'

We have realised that only developmental activities will help solve the insurgency problem of the state. The people of Assam had no knowledge of developmental activities before 2001. There were unemployment problems, social problems, and economic problems, because of which the youth were compelled to join insurgent groups. The common people too had supported these groups because they realised they would benefit in the bargain. But when we introduced developmental schemes, constructed roads, supplied electricity to remote areas, supplied mid-day meals to school-going students, and distributed bicycles to poor girls, the common people realised that most of their problems were solved. Most importantly, we formed self-help groups, which assisted rural people in earning their livelihood and become financially stable. This is the root cause of our success in solving the insurgency problem in the state. Because of these development measures, soon, most people realised there was no point supporting militants. Moreover, they had seen that the BLT (Bodo Liberation Tiger) leader had surrendered and subsequently, had taken part in the elections. So they began relying on the government. 

 

Are you saying you are paying more attention to development rather than law and order in the state?

No, absolutely not. Law and order is very important for us. Because we have been paying attention to it, the secret killings, which were the norm in the days of the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), are a closed chapter now. I am also grateful to the Bhutan and Bangladesh governments for helping us resolve the militancy problem in Assam.

 

You are criticised for having talks with a handful of representatives of a group, while the hard core militants stay away. Do you think this will help resolve the militancy problem in the state? 

We cannot wait till the last member of the organisation joins the mainstream to have talks with them. If we are able to discuss issues with even 50 per cent members of a militant organisation, I think we have succeeded. 

 

It is said that each day, the number of militants and militant organisations is increasing. What is your opinion in this regard? 

Look, for some people, leading a militant organisation is their ideology. Some people involve themselves in it for the romance. Some others are doing this for their self-interest. It is true that we have not succeeded fully, but we have seen a certain percentage of success.

 

What steps has your government taken for the development of different ethnic tribes in the state?

We have formed separate councils for Mising, Tiwa, Sonowal kachari and few more. These councils have been formed to facilitate the equal development of these communities with the mainstream. It is known to all that these ethnic tribes are backward by any criteria, and are unable to improve their lot. With the formation of separate councils, they are now able to engage themselves in the betterment of their community.

 

Some say you are following a divide and rule policy by forming separate councils.

I do not agree. Those who are criticising me now, are the ones who created division among these ethnic groups. I believe in the decentralisation of power, which is why I had formed these councils. 

 

The Gogoi government ignores the demands of a democratic organisation, but it cares about the demands of militant groups. Is this statement true?

No, not at all. Tarun Gogoi does not care for the people who carry arms. We have had talks with those militant organisations that have already left arms or those who had already surrendered.

 

Six communities of the state are demanding scheduled tribe status. Will you agree to their demands?

We agree that these communities should get scheduled tribe status.

 

When do you manage to get some rest amidst your busy schedule? 

I wake up at six in the morning and go to bed after dinner at about 10.30 pm.

 

What do you like doing in your leisure time?

I usually don't get any leisure time, but when I do, I use it to read articles, go shopping, or play golf.

 

If you were not a politician…

I would definitely be a lawyer.

 

Your son Gaurav Gogoi is involved in social work. Do you have any plans for him?

He likes working in the social sector, and I don't want to interfere in his work. I recently learnt that he has started an NGO that looks after the interests of maid servants. 

 

Do you want your only son to join politics?

Yes, if he joins politics, I will be very happy.

 

There is an allegation against you that you get angry when someone cross questions you. In fact, you have left two press conferences in a huff when journalists asked you some unexpected questions.

When someone asks unnecessary questions after getting all the information regarding a subject, I get angry. But I don't think I am an angry per son.