Sahitya Akademi and Dr Hiren Gohain

SAHITYA AKADEMI AND DR HIREN GOHAIN

Even without knowing the proper imbroglio of technicality the way Dr Hiren Gohain is appointed as the Translator-editor or the Editor of the recent controversial publication of Sahitya Akademi's Assamese Short story collection, the " Spendour in the Grass ", it is simply evident that the Language Advisory Committee (LAC ) of Akademi only is primarily responsible for such kind of humiliation to such an eminent and most respectful Assamese scholar of this time, Dr Hiren Gohain. The LAC simply was callous and irresponsible in handling a person of Dr Gohain stature. It is most unfortunate. The humiliation made by Akademi is only perhaps a recommendation from the LAC, which is the apex decision making body for the Assamese language. And accordingly, Sahitya Akademi has implemented under the direction of the LAC only. But Dr Ramkumar Mukhapadhyay, Secretary, Eastern Zone, Sahitya Akademi too, for his long association in the affairs of Akademi and Assamese language and literature, must be knowing Dr Hiren Gohain's scholarship for which he should have been review strictly the assignment of Dr Hiren Gohain in this project and Dr Gohain's locas standi should have been appraised to him in transparent manner. Such non transparency costs the Assamese intelligentsia and readers experiencing an unholy, tasteless and embarrassing controversy resulting probable withdrawals of some of the short stories and who knows may lead to the floor of the Court and finally a deprival of a quality publication coming to light. It is highly unfortunate and deplorable. The LAC and Akademi should make its stand public and clear. We expect the formation of LAC is also to be non controversial in future for better and unbiased deal and decision for keeping the dignity of Assamese language and Sahitya Akademi high.
We also appeal to all concern including Dr Gohain to deal the matter with sense of respect, compassion and amnesty.