The Assam government is set to table the Tiwari Commission Report in the upcoming session of the Assam Legislative Assembly in November. This decision, approved by the Assam Cabinet, marks a significant step towards transparency regarding the 1983 Nellie Massacre. The massacre remains one of the state's most painful and sensitive episodes.
The Nellie Massacre occurred on February 18, 1983, during the peak of the Assam Agitation. Over 2,000 people were reportedly killed in the violence. The state government formed the Tiwari Commission, headed by Justice Tribhubhan Prasad Tiwari, to investigate the causes and circumstances of the massacre. The commission submitted its 600-page report in 1984. However, the then-Congress government, led by Chief Minister Hiteswar Saikia, decided against making the report public. Subsequent governments also chose to keep the findings confidential.
The current government's decision to table the report indicates an intent to ensure transparency and address long-standing demands from human rights activists, researchers, and political groups. These groups have repeatedly sought the report's release. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the cabinet decided to table the report on November 25, viewing it as a bold step to acknowledge a crucial part of Assam's history.
Reportedly, the copies of the report available with the government did not have Justice Tiwari’s signature. To address this, officials conducted forensic tests to verify the report's authenticity. The tests confirmed the report's genuineness.
The report's tabling is expected to spark fresh debate on accountability, justice, and reconciliation. It will likely focus on one of Assam's most sensitive and painful episodes. Alongside the decision to table the Tiwari Commission Report, the Assam Cabinet has also approved other key initiatives. These include enhancement of a petrochemical project, land rights for indigenous families, and regularisation of SSA teachers. Amendments to the Matak and Moran Autonomous Councils Ordinances, 2025, have also been approved, to be tabled in the Assembly.
