In an almost unprecedented development, xatradhikars of 13 xatras (neo-Vaishnavite monasteries) based here today sat on a mass demonstration at Kamalabari Ferry Ghat to draw the attention of the Government towards the need for the permanent protection of the river island under the threat of erosion. The three-hour sit-in demonstration was held under the aegis of Majuli Suraksha Samannay Manch, a conglomerate of political and apolitical organizations espousing the cause of protection of the geographical area of the subdivision. The participants in the sit-in demonstration including activists of Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad and All Assam Students' Union set a deadline of 15 days for the completion of all temporary anti-erosion measures. The demonstrators also demanded the start of the permanent protection works by May 15. Xatradhikar of Auniati Xatra Dr Pitambar Deva Goswami, who coordinated the sit-in demonstration called for cooperation from all quarters to save the seat of Xatriya culture. "We appeal to all sections of people to work together to secure Majuli from floods and erosion,' he said. Secretary of Majuli Suraksha Samannay Manch Uma Kanta Rajkhowa stressed the urgency for the implementation of the anti-erosion project in the face of the oncoming monsoon. President of All Jorhat District Students' Union Biren Saikia criticized the Brahmaputra Board for its