Guwahati, 07 July (HS): The Assam Government is aware of the historical significance of Badarpur Fort, Tourism Minister Ajanta Neog informed the Assam Legislative Assembly on Tuesday while replying to a question raised by BJP MLA Kamalaksha De Purkayastha during the Question Hour of the Budget Session.

Neog said that, according to the State Archaeology Department, the historic Badarpur Fort is situated on the left bank of the Barak River in Sribhumi district. Historical records and local accounts suggest that the fort was constructed during the reign of Kachari King Govinda Chandra Singh. Built with high-quality bricks, the fort has two entrance gates at the front and rear, while each of its four corners features bastions measuring about 3.77 metres in height. Each bastion contains ten loopholes, believed to have been used for firing small arms and monitoring enemy movements.

Raising the issue in the House, MLA Kamalaksha De Purkayastha alleged that previous governments had failed to highlight the fort's true historical background. He urged the government to bring its history before the public, remove misconceptions surrounding the monument and promote awareness among the younger generation. He also demanded the installation of a statue of Kachari King Govinda Chandra Singh at the site.

Responding to the demand, the Tourism Minister stated that Badarpur Fort is a protected heritage monument recognised under the Assam Ancient Monuments and Records Act, 1959. She said the responsibility for its conservation, restoration and beautification lies with the Assam State Archaeology Department, while the Tourism Department has included the fort in its promotional publications to boost heritage tourism.

Neog further informed the House that the State Government had allocated ₹50 lakh in 2023 for the preservation of the historic fort and also highlighted several initiatives being undertaken to strengthen tourism across Assam.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash