Assam Lashes Out Over Alleged Disrespect to 'Oja of Assamese Language'

A storm of criticism has erupted across Assam following controversial remarks made by state minister Jayanta Mallabaruah regarding Hemchandra Baruah, the 19th-century scholar, social reformer, and compiler of Hemkosh, the first dictionary in Assamese. The minister’s comments, questioning the familial linkage between Hemchandra Baruah and contemporary figures associated with his legacy, have drawn widespread condemnation from literary circles and local communities alike.

Renowned author and Sahitya Akademi awardee Dr. Nagen Saikia strongly criticised the minister’s statements, calling them “unfounded and irresponsible.” Speaking from Dibrugarh, Dr. Saikia said, “Hemkosh established a literary benchmark in Assamese language and culture. To create controversy around such a monumental work is nothing short of childish mischief.”

The respected scholar expressed particular dismay at the claim that Jayanta Baruah, the present-day proprietor of Hemkosh and Chairman of Sadin-Pratidin Group, has no familial ties to Hemchandra Baruah. “What can even be said about such a claim? It defies dignity,” Dr. Saikia remarked. He further urged public figures to focus on their duties and contribute positively to Assam’s development rather than interfering in cultural matters they do not understand.

Meanwhile, in Khumtai, tensions ran high in Golaghat's Dergaon—the birthplace of Hemchandra Baruah—where locals staged public outcries against the minister’s remarks. Residents of the area have demanded that Mallabaruah clarify his statements and visit Dergaon to examine the historical lineage for himself.

“For us, Hemchandra Baruah is not just a scholar; he is the soul of Assamese language and reform. Any disparaging remark on his name or family deeply wounds our collective identity,” said a local community leader. The people of Dergaon have extended an open invitation to the minister to learn firsthand about Hemchandra Baruah’s heritage and to rectify what they perceive as a grave insult.

Protesters and commentators across social media have accused the minister of politicising cultural history for personal or political gain. Many have called for an official clarification or even an apology from Mallabaruah, warning against the trivialisation of Assam’s cultural icons.

The controversy has united voices across the political and cultural spectrum, with public intellectuals, historians, and ordinary citizens emphasising the need to respect the legacy of Hemchandra Baruah—widely hailed as the “Oja of Assamese Language.”

As the uproar continues, political observers note that the fallout from this issue could have broader implications in Assam’s socio-political discourse, especially with regard to the treatment and preservation of its literary and cultural heritage.

Further updates are awaited as pressure mounts on the minister to respond.

Also Read: Guwahati: 128th Death Anniversary of ‘Bhaxar Oja’ Hemchandra Baruah Observed