Raju Dhakal emerges as silent torchbearer for Assam’s Gorkhas and Bodoland progress

In Assam, one name stands out not for speeches or slogans, but for silent, steadfast service; Raju Dhakal. A seasoned professional turned social reformer, Dhakal has become a beacon of hope for the Gorkha community and many others across the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).

Currently serving as the General Secretary of Assam Gorkha Sammelan (AGS) and Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Executive Member of BTR, Dhakal has been central to some of the region’s most impactful initiatives. With 17 years of experience in the corporate healthcare sector, having held leadership roles at Allergan and Alcon, he left behind a successful career to dedicate himself fully to public service.

One of his landmark contributions is the Bodoland Eye Hospital, which has brought free cataract surgeries and eye care services to thousands, especially from economically weaker sections. His “Super 50” education initiative offers free coaching for underprivileged students, giving many a fighting chance in competitive exams.

Addressing land rights, long a contentious issue post-Bodoland Accord, Dhakal helped roll out BWISWMATHI 1.0 and is spearheading 2.0, aiming to provide land titles to thousands. These efforts are not just administrative—they’ve rebuilt trust in governance.

Dhakal also heads the Community Happiness Department, focused on rehabilitation and integration of former militants. His work highlights the belief that peace means more than the absence of violence; it means dignity and opportunity for all.

For Assam’s nearly 15 lakh Gorkhas, his leadership has been transformational. He fought tirelessly against the unjust D-voter tagging, helping nearly 90,000 Gorkhas regain citizenship rights. He also resolved NRC biometric issues, unlocking access to Aadhaar and government benefits for thousands.

Under the Vasundhara scheme, he secured a major win: exemption from the three-generation document requirement for Gorkhas seeking land rights. Efforts continue in hard-to-reach Belt and Block areas, especially in BTR.

Despite the Gorkhas' large population, political representation remains minimal. Dhakal believes in changing that not just by demanding inclusion but by encouraging Gorkha youth to prove their leadership within mainstream parties like BJP, Congress, and AGP.

Perhaps most notably, he has ensured 26 ethnic groups within BTR have their own community-specific vision documents, setting a rare example of inclusive development.

As Bodoland approaches the 2025 elections, Dhakal remains behind the scenes, advising policies that aim for long-term peace and equitable growth. He avoids the limelight, but his impact is unmistakable.

In every sense, Raju Dhakal represents a new kind of leader; calm, compassionate and committed. His work is not loud, but it is lasting. For Assam’s Gorkhas and beyond, he is a silent force for dignity, unity and change.