ATASU Calls Off ONGC Shutdown Following Talks

Guwahati: The All Tai Ahom Students' Union suspended its planned statewide shutdown of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited. The protest was set for August 25. ATASU president Basanta Gogoi announced the decision on Sunday, August 23, in Sivasagar. The reversal followed a four-hour meeting between student leaders and ONGC officials.

ONGC committed to hiring local candidates and keeping all regional offices inside Assam. The company addressed fears regarding the relocation of financial operations to Delhi. Officials clarified the move aimed to centralize processes rather than pull operations from the state. "The decision was taken after a four-hour meeting with ONGC authorities, during which several demands concerning Assam were discussed," Gogoi said.

The agreement also covers academic and historical initiatives. ONGC pledged to provide training and support for local students preparing for Union Public Service Commission examinations. Furthermore, the company promised to develop and preserve the historic Pohu Garh site located in Sivasagar. ATASU intends to watch these promises closely. Future actions will depend on how the company handles these commitments.