Despite various government initiatives, indigenous populations in remote areas lack essential services.

Tezpur, June 24: The regions of Tharabari, Gamariloga, Uttar-Rangagora, and Phulaguri within the Rangapara LAC of Sonitpur district are grappling with significant challenges. Modern amenities such as roads, bridges, and access to clean drinking water remain unattainable for the local residents. Over 400 families inhabit these lesser-known villages along the Assam-Arunachal border, enduring a difficult existence.

Frustrated by the government's indifference to their ongoing issues, local activist Madan Basumatary pointed out that not only do residents have to travel long distances for work, but students also journey to Amloga, Sengelimari, and Chardwar for their education.

“The absence of proper road infrastructure and bridges over the Tharabari River, which flows from Arunachal Pradesh, creates daily hardships for the community,” Basumatary stated.

He mentioned that multiple requests have been made to authorities for the construction of a bridge at Uttar Rangagara-Tharabari, yet no progress has been made.

Villages such as Dwifanguri, Maidangsri, Maibong Nwgwr, Bathowfuri, and others continue to suffer from inadequate road access, poor electrification, lack of drinking water, limited healthcare services, and insufficient educational facilities.

During a recent visit, it was evident that despite the presence of various developmental projects, the indigenous communities in these remote areas still lack basic modern amenities.

Residents expressed feelings of neglect, stating, “For the past 30 years, we have been used as pawns by political parties during elections, only to be forgotten afterward.” They highlighted that the Panchayati Raj system and the Forest Rights Act of 2006 have not been effectively implemented in their regions.

As a result, land pattas have not been issued due to government negligence and the inaction of local representatives.

“Our grievances go unheard. Although some villages fall under the BTR area as per the 2020 peace accord, we had hoped for change. Even with the recent election of the Hagrama Mohilary-led BPF, our situation remains unchanged,” lamented another local resident.

The communities are now calling on the government to take decisive action to address their longstanding issues.