Bhupen Hazarika’s family turns down Bharat Ratna in protest against Citizenship Bill

Famed Assamese singer Bhupen Hazarika’s family has decided to turn down the Bharat Ratna that was conferred to him by the Modi government this year, as a mark of protest against the Citizenship Bill.

Bhupen Hazarika was posthumously honoured with the highest civilian award this Republic Day along with former President Pranab Mukherjee and late social activist Nanaji Deshmukh.

However, there is lack of consensus among all family members of Bhupen Hazarika over turning down the Bharat Ratna.

According to sources, Bhupen Hazarika’s son Tez Hazarika, who is based in the US, has expressed concerns over the Citizenship Bill.

However, Bhupen Hazarika’s brother, Samar has said that such a big decision of returning the Bharat Ratna cannot be taken by an individual.

(with inputs from Indiatoday.com)