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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 19/06/2025

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (19-06-2025).

📝 Mains Question:

Q. Discuss the constitutional, political, and administrative challenges in the implementation of Clause 6 of the Assam Accord. Suggest a balanced roadmap to address concerns of identity, inclusivity, and federal cooperation.

📘 Model Answer

Introduction

The Assam Accord, signed in 1985 between the Government of India, AASU, and AAGSP, sought to resolve the long-standing agitation against illegal immigration. Clause 6 of the Accord promises constitutional, legislative, and administrative safeguards to protect the cultural, linguistic, and social identity of Assamese people. Despite decades passing, its implementation remains incomplete, largely due to definitional ambiguities and political sensitivities.

Constitutional Significance of Clause 6

Article 29 & 30: Protects minority cultural and linguistic identities
Sixth Schedule & 371B: Offers a template for regional autonomy
Clause 6 is expected to enhance cultural federalism, not just administrative protection

Challenges in Implementation

Category	Challenges
Legal/Definitional	Lack of consensus on who qualifies as “Assamese” – pre-1951 settlers? Post-1971?
Political Sensitivity	Balancing rights of ethnic Assamese with those of tribal communities and post-1971 migrants
Administrative Coordination	Disagreement between Centre and State on report timelines and implementation modalities
Overlapping Processes	Tension between NRC outcomes and Clause 6 implementation
Trust Deficit	Delays in adopting Biplab Sarma Committee’s 39 recommendations have reduced public faith

Justice Biplab Sarma Committee (2020) – Key Recommendations

Reservation for Assamese people in Assembly seats and government jobs
Regulation of land rights, trade licenses, and cultural institutions
Constitutional amendment to define “Assamese people”
Strengthening of indigenous language and cultural promotion bodies

Balancing Identity with Inclusivity

Stakeholder	Concern
Indigenous Assamese	Fear of cultural extinction due to demographic changes
Tribal Communities	Want parallel safeguards without being subsumed
Bengali-origin Citizens	Risk exclusion from identity-based benefits
Civil Society & Students	Demand transparent and timely implementation

Way Forward: A Balanced Roadmap

Strategic Pillar	Actionable Suggestions
Legal Clarity	Define “Assamese people” through public consultation and SC vetting
Stakeholder Dialogue	Form multi-ethnic consultation group including AASU, tribal councils
Legislative Action	Enact a new State Act with constitutional backing for protections
NRC Review Linkage	Synchronise Clause 6 implementation with NRC appeal framework
Cultural Investment	Fund Assamese-medium schools, literature, and institutions under cultural rights

Conclusion

Clause 6 is more than a policy—it is a promise of cultural justice. Its implementation must not exclude or alienate communities but rather foster a federal and inclusive Assamese identity. With political will, transparent processes, and community consensus, Assam can honour its past while securing a united future.

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