Following the Partition of Bengal (1905), Assam was merged with East Bengal under a Lieutenant Governor, with its capital at Dhaka. The period saw political discontent, limited representation, and large-scale migration from East Bengal, which reshaped Assam’s demographics and later triggered the Assam Agitation. The partition was annulled in 1911.
Formation of a New Province (1905–1906)
In 1905, the Partition of Bengal was carried out by the British.
As a result, East Bengal was merged with Assam, forming a new province named Eastern Bengal and Assam.
The new administrative unit was governed by a Lieutenant Governor, with its capital at Dhaka.
Administrative Setup and Representation
The province had a 15-member Legislative Council.
Assam was allotted only two seats, indicating limited political representation.
These members were not elected, but nominated by rotating groups of public bodies, undermining democratic participation.
Public Reactions to the Partition
The Partition of Bengal faced strong protests in Bengal, sparking widespread agitation.
In Assam, too, there was dissatisfaction, though the intensity was less pronounced.
The Partition was annulled in 1911 by a Royal Decree, and Assam’s administrative identity was restored.
Impact of the Swadeshi Movement (1905–1908)
The Swadeshi Movement, which spread across Bengal, had limited impact in Assam.
However, some individuals like Ambikagiri Raychoudhury were inspired by Swadeshi ideals and took part in early nationalist activities.
Overall, Assam remained peripherally involved in the early nationalist wave.
Encouraged Migration from East Bengal
Colonial Policy on Agricultural Expansion
From 1905 onwards, the colonial government encouraged migration of peasants from East Bengal to Assam.
These settlers were directed towards the char areas (riverine tracts) of the Brahmaputra valley to boost agricultural production.
Rise in Immigrant Population
The initiative proved successful from the British perspective in terms of agricultural expansion.
Between 1905 and 1921, the immigrant population increased four-fold.
This large-scale migration laid the foundation for future demographic shifts in Assam.
Long-Term Consequences: Roots of Assam Agitation
The migration continued post-independence, altering the socio-political fabric of the state.
It eventually led to the emergence of identity-based movements, most notably the Assam Agitation of 1979, which demanded:
Detection and deportation of illegal immigrants
Protection of Assamese identity and resources
Conclusion
The period of Eastern Bengal and Assam under a Lt. Governor (1906–1912) was marked by political dissatisfaction, low representation, and demographic transformations.
The Partition of Bengal and its reversal, coupled with the encouraged migration policy, had long-lasting implications for Assam’s identity, politics, and social fabric.