Birubala Rabha, renowned for her relentless crusade against witch hunting in Assam, has left an indelible mark with her unwavering dedication to eradicating social evils. Her recent demise at the age of 75, after battling cancer, has left a void in the hearts of those she touched and inspired.
Birubala's journey of courage and resilience was marked by numerous accolades, including the prestigious Padma Shri conferred upon her by the Government of India in 2021. Additionally, her nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005 underscored the global recognition of her noble endeavors.
Her son, Dayalu Rabha, fondly remembers her as a beacon of bravery, undeterred even in the face of adversity. Despite her diagnosis of cancer, Birubala remained steadfast in her mission, firm in her belief that her efforts to aid others would be her greatest legacy.
Dayalu reminisces about his mother's unwavering commitment to serving humanity, which stemmed from her own harrowing experience when her elder brother, Dharmeswar Rabha, was falsely accused of witchcraft. This traumatic incident ignited Birubala's resolve to combat the scourge of witch hunting, leading her to establish 'Mission Birubala' in 2012. Through this initiative, she tirelessly advocated against superstitions and provided vital support to victims of witch-hunting, saving numerous lives in the process.
Birubala's pivotal role in the enactment of the Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act, 2015, stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to justice. This landmark legislation, crafted under her guidance, aims to curb the heinous practice by imposing stringent penalties on perpetrators and safeguarding the rights of victims.
The profound impact of Birubala's legacy resonates deeply across Assam and beyond. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and former Assam Director General of Police Kuladhar Saikia paid tribute to her invaluable contributions, highlighting her tireless efforts to champion the cause of social reform.
Despite the progress made in combating witch hunting, Saikia emphasizes the enduring influence of superstition and societal prejudices, underscoring the need for continued education and awareness. Birubala's legacy serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring future generations to challenge entrenched beliefs and uphold the principles of justice and equality.
