NEW DELHI: Despite facing significant backlash over his controversial remarks regarding Assam's "Miyas," Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma issued a stern warning on Sunday, stating that this community would continue to encounter "trouble" as long as he holds power in the state. He reiterated his position that the "Miyas" should persistently face hardships to encourage them to leave Assam, which is gearing up for crucial assembly elections.
CM Sarma's Strong Statements on the Sidelines of Government Event
The BJP leader made these comments while speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a government programme in Goalpara. He asserted, "If I remain in Assam, they will face troubles. They can’t live in peace here. Only if we create difficulties for them will they leave." Sarma described such individuals as "illegal Bangladeshis" and emphasized that they should not be permitted to work within the state's boundaries.
Reference to Previous Comments and Legal Justifications
Referring to an earlier statement about a "Miya" rickshaw-puller who charged Rs 5 in fare and was paid Rs 4, the chief minister argued that he had actually spoken for their benefit. He questioned, "By law, they cannot work here. Citizens of a country can work in their own land. How can those from Bangladesh work?" The term "Miya" is widely considered pejorative and is often used to refer to Bengali-speaking Muslims in Assam, whom many non-Bengali speakers identify as Bangladeshi immigrants.
Escalation of Rhetoric and Allegations
Sarma further escalated his rhetoric by adding, "If they cannot accept me speaking for their benefit, then I have to work against them." He also made alarming claims, suggesting that "Bangladeshi Muslims" could constitute up to 40% of Assam's population in the upcoming Census. Additionally, he accused them of encroaching on satras, which are Vaishnavite seats of learning, as well as on land, and engaging in activities he termed as "love jihad" and "fertiliser jihad."
Political Backlash and Election Context
Opposition parties have swiftly condemned Sarma's remarks, labeling them as "hate speech" and demanding immediate action against him. These comments come at a critical juncture, with Assam scheduled to hold assembly elections in March–April for all 126 constituencies. The BJP has been in power in the state since 2016, marking its first term, and this controversy is likely to influence the political landscape as the polls approach.
The ongoing debate highlights the sensitive issues of immigration and identity in Assam, with Sarma's statements adding fuel to an already contentious environment. As the election season intensifies, such rhetoric is expected to play a significant role in shaping voter sentiments and political discourse across the state.
