This morning, at approximately 9:23, the stalwart human rights activist and Padma Shri awardee Birubala Rabha breathed her last while undergoing treatment at the State Cancer Institute in Guwahati. Rabha, who dedicated her life to combating the scourge of witch-hunting, succumbed to her battle against cancer, which had reached its advanced third stage.
The Assam Government had earlier committed to covering the expenses for her medical care, recognising her invaluable contributions to society. This decision was announced by Assam Cabinet Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary following his visit to the State Cancer Institute last Saturday to assess Rabha’s health. She had been admitted to the institute on April 22.
Expressing profound sorrow at Rabha’s passing, Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma took to social media, stating, “I am deeply distressed to learn about the passing away of Padma Shri Birubala Rabha. Through her untiring efforts to end social evils, she illuminated the paths of scores of women with hope and confidence. Rising through a challenging life, she epitomised courage against all odds. Assam will forever remain grateful for her leadership in serving society.”
Despite initial reports of a slight improvement in Rabha’s condition on May 4, following her transfer to the Intensive Care Unit-ICU, her health subsequently deteriorated, leading to her passing today.
Birubala Rabha’s legacy transcends her battle with cancer. As a tireless activist, she initiated extensive campaigns against witch-hunting and played a pivotal role in the enactment of the Prevention of and Protection from Witch Hunting Act, 2015, by the Assam Government. Her organisation, Mission Birubala, continues to raise awareness about the grave dangers of witch-hunting prevalent in society, ensuring that her advocacy persists even in her absence.
