President Droupadi Murmu's planned one-day visit to Assam, originally scheduled for later this week, has been postponed due to "unavoidable circumstances," as confirmed by officials on Tuesday, June 10. This marks the second time that her visit to Assam has been deferred.

The primary purpose of this trip was for the President to attend a state-organised event in Guwahati, where she was to confer the prestigious Srimanta Sankardeva Award to renowned classical dancer Sonal Mansingh. The award is one of Assam’s highest civilian honours, bestowed upon individuals for their outstanding contributions to the fields of art, culture, literature, and social service.

Despite the postponement of her visit, officials from the Assam Governor’s Secretariat assured that the scheduled programme will continue without interruption. The award ceremony will still be held on Thursday, but in the absence of the President, Governor Gulab Chand Kataria will present the award to Sonal Mansingh on her behalf.

An official from the Governor's Secretariat told PTI, “The President’s visit is postponed. However, the programme will take place as scheduled and the award will be presented by the Governor.” This ensures that the state function maintains its schedule and that the recipient is duly honoured.

Additionally, the President’s Office has formally communicated this change to the Principal Secretary of the Assam Chief Minister, thereby informing the state administration of the revised plans.

This is not the first time President Murmu has postponed her visit to Assam. She had initially been slated to confer the Srimanta Sankardeva Award on April 25, as part of a two-day visit to the state. However, that visit was called off in the wake of the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, and the security concerns that followed. In light of those developments, the President’s itinerary was understandably revised.

President Droupadi Murmu, who assumed office in July 2022, has shown keen interest in engaging with various states, including those in the Northeast. Her visits are seen as part of a broader initiative to strengthen the Centre’s outreach and connection with regional cultures, communities, and achievements. Her presence at such cultural events also underscores the national recognition being given to contributions from different parts of India.

While her physical absence from the upcoming Assam programme is notable, the government’s decision to continue the award ceremony highlights the significance of the occasion and the state’s desire to honour its commitments.

The Srimanta Sankardeva Award, instituted by the Government of Assam, celebrates the values and cultural ethos of the 15th-century saint, reformer, and cultural icon, Srimanta Sankardeva. Honouring Sonal Mansingh, a Padma Vibhushan awardee and leading exponent of Indian classical dance, reflects the award’s stature and the state’s commitment to cultural excellence.

In conclusion, although President Murmu's visit to Assam has once again been postponed, the state event and award ceremony will proceed, with the Governor stepping in to fulfil the ceremonial duties, ensuring continuity and respect for tradition.