When Assam celebrates Bihu Uruka, Kekerikuchi weeps

Kekerikuchi, Jan 14 (PTI) As Assam was today celebrating Uruka on the eve of Bhogali (Feasting) Bihu tomorrow, Kekerikuchi village was remembering the massacre of 17 villagers by insurgents on this date, nearly 15 years ago. The residents of this village in lower Assam’s Baksa district mourn this day every year since 1998 in front of the memorial where the 17 victims were cremated and the entire village observes fast. Instead of merry making, indulging in the traditional Uruka community feasting and lighting up 'Mejis' (thatch, bamboo and banana leaf structure), the residents here light 1000 earthen lamps in front of the memorial in the memory of the victims. The otherwise easy going villagers have still not forgotten the trauma of terror created by militants armed with AK-47 assault rifles on Uruka night of January 13, 1998 mercilessly firing upon the people, killing 17 persons from several families silencing forever children, women and the old. Uruka being a black night for the villagers, they keep away from organising the festival. Children of Kekerikuchi born during the last 14 years do not know the significance of 'Uruka'. Nor do the newly married brides or the young girls aware about the food preparations that are part of today’s community feastings. Meanwhile, people of Assam irrespective of religion, caste, community and language will gather together to partake food together tonight in the Mejis which they will set on fire before sunrise tomorrow praying to Lord Agni (fire) to take away all evils and bless the farmers with a good harvest next year. PTI Cor ESB MM 01141455 NNNN