Mumbai: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has made an earnest public appeal to bring the ongoing Bihu celebrations to an early conclusion, citing the current geopolitical situation involving escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
In a statement shared on social media, CM Sarma acknowledged and celebrated the overwhelming enthusiasm with which Bihu has been observed across Assam over the past month. Through numerous cultural programs, we have collectively experienced the joy, unity, and heritage that define Bihu. I extend my sincere gratitude to all who contributed to making the celebrations truly memorable,” he said.
However, given the evolving security concerns at the national level, the Chief Minister urged that all remaining Bihu events scheduled from May 10 onwards be respectfully cancelled. “Let us conclude this festive season with the same dignity and solidarity with which it was observed. In these times, unity and responsibility must prevail over festivity,” Sarma emphasised.
Take a look at Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma’s tweet here:
Over the past month, we have joyfully celebrated Bihu across Assam through numerous cultural events. I sincerely thank everyone for their enthusiastic participation and contributions.
However, the time has now come to conclude this festive season. I humbly appeal that all…
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) May 9, 2025
This marks a historic first: never before has a sitting Chief Minister of Assam publicly requested the cancellation of Bihu celebrations, underscoring the seriousness of the current situation.
India-Pakistan conflict
The Chief Minister’s appeal comes in the wake of significant military developments along India’s western frontier. During the night of May 8–9, multiple drone and missile attacks, reportedly launched by the Pakistan military, were successfully intercepted and neutralised by the Indian Armed Forces. These attempted strikes targeted critical military bases, including Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur—all of which lie close to the International Border and Line of Control (LOC).
According to official defence sources, there were no casualties or material losses, thanks to the rapid and effective response by Indian forces. Simultaneously, Pakistani troops were also reported to have carried out several ceasefire violations along the LOC in Jammu & Kashmir. In response, the Indian Army launched precise countermeasures, delivering a strong message of deterrence.
“The Indian Armed Forces are fully prepared and committed to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. Any act of aggression will be met with firm and decisive action,” stated the Army in a press release.
In a major strategic gain, India also succeeded in downing a Pakistani Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft, a key asset in Islamabad’s surveillance and battlefield coordination efforts. This blow is likely to significantly degrade Pakistan’s aerial situational awareness and command capabilities.
Cultural significance of Bihu
Rongali Bihu, the most important festival in Assam, marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and is celebrated with folk music, traditional dance (like Bihu Naas), and vibrant community gatherings. The call for cancellation of its final events is being met with both understanding and a sense of solemnity, as residents prioritise national security over festivity.
CM Sarma’s call serves as a reminder that even in moments of cultural pride, national duty and collective responsibility must take precedence.
Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has appealed for the cancellation of all remaining Bihu festivities scheduled from May 10. The request follows a series of drone and missile attacks by Pakistan, which were neutralised by Indian forces. Sarma emphasised concluding the festival with unity and responsibility in light of national security concerns. Lifestyle Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
