Amit Shah's Strategic Assam Visit: Assembly Complex Foundation and Cultural Engagement
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to arrive in Dibrugarh, Assam, on Thursday for a significant two-day visit, marking his second trip to the poll-bound state within a month. This high-profile visit underscores the political importance of Assam ahead of upcoming elections, with Shah scheduled to lay the foundation stone for the second complex of the Assam Legislative Assembly in Dibrugarh.
Detailed Itinerary and Political Discussions
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma outlined the minister's packed schedule, stating that Shah will arrive on January 29 and stay overnight in Dibrugarh. On January 30, he will perform the foundation-laying ceremony for the assembly complex, followed by several other programs. Shah will then travel to neighbouring Dhemaji district to participate in the Mising cultural festival, highlighting the government's focus on regional cultural preservation.
After the cultural engagement, Shah will proceed to Guwahati for crucial political discussions at the BJP state headquarters. These discussions are expected to center on election strategies and party mobilization in Assam. The visit concludes with Shah's departure for West Bengal at 7 pm on January 30, emphasizing his busy itinerary across eastern India.
Enhanced Security Measures with Drone Ban
Ahead of Shah's visit, the Dibrugarh district administration has implemented stringent security protocols, including a comprehensive ban on drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Additional District Magistrate Pranjal Boruah issued the prohibition order on Wednesday, citing potential threats to public safety and law and order.
The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNS), 2023, prohibits all drone operations within a 2-kilometer radius of key locations:
- Khanikar Field in Dibrugarh
- Temporary helipad at Manohari Tea Estate Playground
- Temporary helipad at Hiloidhari Field
This ban applies to both commercial and recreational drones and will remain effective from 6 am on January 29 to 6 pm on January 30, unless revoked earlier. Violators face penal action under Section 223 of the BNS, 2023, and other relevant legal provisions.
Exemptions and Enforcement Protocols
The administration has specified exemptions for drones operated by government agencies, law enforcement authorities, or emergency services, provided they obtain prior permission from the additional district magistrate or an authorized officer. The senior superintendent of police in Dibrugarh has been directed to ensure strict enforcement of these measures, reflecting the heightened security arrangements for the visit.
This visit follows Shah's previous trip to Assam on December 29, indicating sustained political engagement with the state. The combination of developmental initiatives like the assembly complex foundation and cultural participation demonstrates a multifaceted approach to governance and outreach in Assam.
