Thaindian News

Guwahati, Feb 19 (ANI): Grand cultural performances followed the award ceremony dominated the 8th formation day of Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC).

Local and Bhutanese troupes showcased their rich culture through folk dance performances.

Government departments showcased tableaus on various themes.

Through this ceremony the BTC sent a strong message to all insurgent groups that they should shun violence and join the mainstream.

In 2003, the BTS was formed after the Bodoland Libertion Tigers (BLT) joined the democratic way of life by shunning the violence.

The area under jurisdiction of BTC is known as Bodo Territorial Autonomous District, which includes Kokrajhar, Udalguri, Baska and Chirang regions.

Developmental work, which had been earlier been affected by insurgency, gained momentum with the formation of BTC.

“I want all the terrorist groups to come forward and sit for talks so that development can take place,” said Jitendar Basumatary, a local.

Speaking to the media on the occasion Union Home Secretary G K Pillai expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of killings in the region.

“We are concerned with the killings that are taking place. We have appealed that these killings should be stopped. We should strengthen the society so that law and order situation improves,” Pillai said. (ANI)