Assam BJP MLA Dr Habbey Teron named candidate for Deputy Speaker's post
Guwahati, June 18
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday announced that BJP legislator Dr Habbey Teron will be the ruling alliance's candidate for the post of Deputy Speaker of the Assam Legislative Assembly.
Taking to the social media platform X, CM Sarma said that Dr Teron, the MLA from the Amri (ST) constituency, has been nominated for the constitutional post and expressed confidence that he would strengthen the voice of tribal communities in the legislative process.
"I am pleased to announce that Dr. Habbey Teron, Hon'ble MLA from Amri (ST) Hills, will be our candidate for the post of Deputy Speaker of the Assam Legislative Assembly," the Chief Minister posted.
CM Sarma highlighted that Dr Teron is a medical professional by training and the first elected representative from the newly created Amri Assembly constituency.
He said the legislator symbolises the aspirations of Assam's tribal communities and would further enhance the representation of the hill districts in the state legislature.
"A medical professional by training and the first elected representative from the newly created Amri constituency, Dr Teron represents the aspirations of our tribal communities and will further strengthen the voice of Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao in the legislative process," CM Sarma said.
The Chief Minister also conveyed his best wishes to the legislator for the upcoming election to the Deputy Speaker's post.
Dr Teron's candidature assumes significance as he hails from the tribal-dominated hill region and represents the newly carved Amri (ST) constituency.
His elevation is being viewed as a move aimed at ensuring greater participation of indigenous and tribal communities in the functioning of the Assembly.
The post of Deputy Speaker is a key constitutional office in the Assembly, assisting the Speaker in conducting legislative business and presiding over House proceedings in the Speaker's absence.
With the ruling National Democratic Alliance enjoying a comfortable majority in the 126-member Assam Assembly, Dr Teron's election to the post is expected to be a formality.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally some representation for Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao! These hill districts often get ignored in the mainstream politics. Hope Dr Teron uses his medical background to also push for better healthcare infrastructure in tribal areas.
Interesting development. But let's see if this is just tokenism or genuine empowerment. The tribals in Assam face real issues like land rights and displacement. A Deputy Speaker from their community is welcome, but we need concrete actions, not just symbolic appointments.
CM Sarma is very strategic with these appointments. First, he consolidates non-tribal votes, now reaching out to tribals. Politics aside, Dr Teron seems qualified. But I hope the Deputy Speaker role isn't reduced to a rubber stamp - the House needs independent voices too.
Good to see a doctor entering legislative politics. We need more professionals in the Assembly. However, I'm a bit skeptical - will he be able to balance his medical duties with this constitutional role? Hope he doesn't become just another party yes-man.
This is a positive step for tribal representation in Assam's legislature. The fact that Dr Teron is from the newly created Amri constituency shows the government is serious about giving voice to previously unrepresented areas. Let's hope this translates into better policies for the hill tribes.
M We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.