M.P. Bezbaruah
IN EARLY JANUARY, the Centre constituted a high-level committee to look into the implementation of clause six of the Assam Accord (1985), which seeks to protect and promote Assamese identity and culture. M.P. Bezbaruah, a former IAS officer who has served in several northeast states, was chosen to head the committee. Within days, however, he resigned, prompting speculation that he was against the Centre's Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016. In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, Bezbaruah talks about his decision to quit. Excerpts:
Why did you resign?
When the government decided to set up the committee, I agreed to it. But then, the other members of the committee did not come. So, I told the government that nobody wanted to be part of it, and decided to pull out.
The general opinion is that you resigned because you were against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.
That is completely wrong. I [wanted] to work in the interest of Assam. The issue was related to clause six of the Assam Accord. I was not at all a disgruntled man.
But then why could you not make it work?
The people in the committee were not chosen by me. The home ministry chose them. When I called them for the meeting, they refused to come. How could I hold a meeting [then]?
Why did they not come?
Most of the members were from the cultural world of Assam; educationists, and [members of] social organisations and the All Assam Students' Union. They had serious reservations about the bill and the validity of such a committee.
What reservations?
They wanted to resolve the citizenship issue first and then [move on to clause six of the accord].
Did the members tell you that they were opting out because they were against the bill?
They said the bill contradicted clause five of the accord (to expel foreigners). So, there was no chance they would be part of it.
Did the Centre talk to you before appointing you as the head of the committee?
No. The Assam chief minister requested me to accept the offer.
Where do you stand on the bill?
At this juncture, I would not like to comment in detail. But, a proper dialogue with the people is the need of the hour.
But the bill is not Assam specific. It applies to the entire country.
Yes, I can understand. But, the people of Assam are fearful. We must know why and address it. For that, a dialogue is needed.
Do you think a dialogue is possible?
Why not? You had dialogue with the [insurgent] Mizo National Front, which is in power in Mizoram today.
Would you return to the committee if the situation improves?
The Central government would have to have a dialogue with all stakeholders first. If needed, I am ready to come back.