Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Vows to Prevent Muslim Takeover of State

The Congress party walked out of the state assembly during a speech by Mr. Sarma, citing his remarks as communal. Mr. Sarma, speaking at Assam’s Legislative assembly, addressed the Opposition’s adjournment motion, focusing on issues such as the rape of minors and the targeting of Bengali Muslims in upper Assam’s Sivasagar district.

He asserted, “I will take sides. What can you do?

Will not let Miya Muslims take over Assam.” The term ‘Miya’ refers to Muslims of Bengali origin, often accused of being illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.

Mr. Sarma’s remarks were in response to statements made by Opposition leaders Rafikul Sahab and Debabrata Saikia, who emphasized the potential migration of people from Lower Assam to upper Assam. Mr. Sarma questioned this assertion, expressing, “You Miya Muslims will take the entire lower Assam?

We will not let you all to take the lower Assam, no never.” The Opposition claimed that certain organizations have been threatening Muslims from Upper Assam, demanding that they leave the administrative division.

AIUDF, the Opposition party, has requested action from the governor against these unknown organizations and fundamentalist groups. During a press interaction, Opposition leader Debabrata Saikia highlighted concerns about the law and order situation, emphasizing instances of failure such as rape, dacoity, and murder.

He also criticized the Chief Minister for alleged communal remarks, stating, “The Chief Minister is saying very communal things. We have protested and walked out from the assembly.”

These events echoed two days after Opposition MLA Akhil Gogoi accused the BJP of attempting to recreate the 2002 Gujarat episodes in Assam. The party cited an increase in cases of rape under the BJP rule, compared to the last 15 years of Congress rule in Assam.

The BJP has denied these accusations.