Guwahati: The United People's Party Liberal (UPPL) on April 2 released its election manifesto in Kokrajhar ahead of the Assam Assembly elections scheduled for April 9, outlining a broad roadmap centred on inclusive development, peace, and socio-economic progress in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).
The manifesto was released by party president Pramod Boro at the party's central office. Addressing party workers and supporters, he described it as a "People's Manifesto," shaped through consultations with various stakeholders and reflecting the aspirations of diverse communities in the region.
Expressing confidence ahead of the polls, Boro said the party was hopeful of a strong mandate and a decisive role in forming what he termed a "pro-marginalised, people-centric government" in the state.
A central theme of the document is the preservation of peace and communal harmony through dialogue and inclusive governance. The party has proposed the formation of peace committees at the subdivision level and committed to the full implementation of the BTR Peace Accord, 2020. It has further called for institutional strengthening, including the creation of 60 MCLA constituencies and direct funding from the Centre to the BTR administration.
On land and community rights, the UPPL has promised distribution of land pattas to eligible landless families and resolution of long-pending land disputes. It has also proposed promoting Rabha, Koch-Rajbongshi, and Santali as mediums of instruction in schools, while extending support to religious institutions across communities.
In the social sectors, the party has outlined plans to expand scholarship schemes, establish institutions such as a Central University in Baksa and an NIT in Udalguri, and strengthen healthcare infrastructure through improved ambulance services, cancer care support, and adequate staffing in hospitals.
The manifesto places emphasis on social welfare measures, including financial assistance for senior citizens, support for persons with disabilities, and provisions for pilgrims from different faiths. It also highlights youth-focused initiatives such as skill development centres, fellowship programmes, and employment-linked training.
On the economic front, the UPPL has proposed infrastructure expansion through roads, bridges, irrigation systems, and industrial parks. Measures to boost agriculture include efforts to enhance farmers' income, expand irrigation coverage, promote modern farming techniques, and improve market access.
Environmental protection has been identified as a priority, with commitments to conserve national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, address human-elephant conflict, and promote eco-tourism in the region.
With polling due on April 9, the party has appealed to voters in the constituencies it is contesting to support its vision of a peaceful, developed, and inclusive Bodoland Territorial Region.