Identity Assertion of Nath Yogi Community of Undivided Jorhat District of Assam: Role of Assam Pradeshik Yogi Sanmilani and Nath Yogi Development Council

Abstract

India attains independence and established a parliamentary Democratic system. The constitution gives us the right to freedom and right to equality to all its citizens without any discrimination on the basis of caste, creed and religion etc. India, being a developing nation is currently facing a number of challenges and identity assertion is one of them. In India, the present scenario clearly depicts that the lower castes are still discriminated in day-to-day life in the society. Other Backward Community (OBC) is a collective term used by the government of India to recognize the people who are socially, economically and culturally backward and in a disadvantageous position. According to Mondol Commission’s Report, 1980, 52% of the total population of India belongs tothe Other Backward Community. Accordingly, 27% reservation has been suggested and provided for the Other Backward Community of people. In spite of that also some sections of the OBC’s like the Nath Yogis are still deprived of and suffering from identity crisis in the state of Assam in general and the Jorhat district in particular.
In the late 19th century, the stalwarts amongst the Yogi community felt the need for organizing themselves to seek better opportunity for Yogi Community. This awakening started from Bengal in United India. The Sanmilani is the effort of some dedicated members of the Yogi community and an urge to something spread amongst the educated people. The Assam –Bongo Yogi Sanmilani was born due to their united efforts. In 1910, the first conference was held in Coomille in East Bengal (present day Bangladesh).