Padma Shri awardee and noted Assamese weaver Hemoprova Chutia has clarified that her recent meeting with All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) president Badruddin Ajmal at his residence in Hojai was purely personal and had no political motive.
Chutia, who is known for her work in traditional handloom weaving, including weaving religious scriptures and other significant works, met Ajmal at his residence and presented him with a specially handwoven textile featuring the National Anthem.
The meeting came at a time when Ajmal has faced criticism from different quarters over his flood relief activities in parts of Upper Assam. The visit subsequently attracted public attention, prompting Chutia to explain the reason behind her meeting with the AIUDF leader.
“I did not go there for politics. I went for a purely personal reason,” Chutia said, making it clear that her visit was not connected with politics or any matter that could cause harm to society or the community.
Chutia also spoke about Ajmal’s relief activities in flood-affected areas of Upper Assam. She said that despite his advanced age and poor health, Ajmal had travelled to areas affected by the floods and personally distributed relief materials among people in need.
According to Chutia, such efforts should be acknowledged rather than being turned into a political controversy. She said that Ajmal should be thanked for extending help to flood-affected people and that unnecessary controversy should not be created when someone is involved in work aimed at helping society.
The handwoven textile presented by Chutia during the meeting also reflected her long association with Assam’s traditional weaving heritage. She has earned recognition for using handloom as a medium to preserve cultural and religious works, with her contributions earning her the Padma Shri.
