Assam Chief Minister Calls for Debate on Hindu-Muslim Demographic Shift

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasised the need for a debate on the demographic changes between Hindus and Muslims in the state. He highlighted that rapid demographic shifts in regions like Lower Assam could lead to significant human crises. "The Hindu-Muslim issue is the most burning issue in the state today; we need to debate and resolve it," Sarma stated during an assembly session.

Sarma shared census data from 1951 to 2011, showing that the Muslim population in Assam increased from 24% to 34%. He pointed out that Hindus have lost lands and rights, with villages named after Hindus now having no Hindu residents. "Demographic change is happening at such a speed in Lower Assam that it is leading to an unprecedented human disaster," he claimed.

Demographic Changes and Migration

The Chief Minister mentioned that a document detailing demographic changes at the polling booth level is being prepared. This document will include Hindu-Muslim voter ratios for 2011, 2021, and projections for 2031. He refuted opposition claims that illiteracy and backwardness were primary reasons for high population growth among Muslims, stating that even areas with schools and hospitals show high Muslim population growth rates.

Sarma also discussed the migration of Hindus from 'Miya' Muslim-majority areas in Lower and Central Assam. 'Miya' is a term used for Bengali-speaking Muslims in Assam. "Hindus are leaving ‘Miya’ Muslim areas from Lower and Central Assam areas. I have analysed at micro-level the reasons for migration and how they are instigated," he said, promising to provide more details later.

Political Reactions and Community Roles

During the assembly session, Congress MLA Sherman Ali Ahmed claimed that 40 Hindu families were given protection in his Baghbar constituency. Sarma responded, "In a place like Barpeta site of Vaishnavite learning, you are flaunting that 40 Hindus families are being given protection. Such has the situation come to for the Assamese people." He also referred to Ahmed as a "guest appearance" in the assembly, urging quick disposal of his disqualification petition.

Opposition MLAs raised objections to Sarma's statements, creating noisy scenes. Sarma remained firm, saying, "I will give my reply, even if it is at 2 am and I am all alone… I am speaking for the future of the state and I will put it on record." He claimed that Muslims are not migrating from Hindu-majority areas, but Hindus are leaving 'Miya' Muslim-majority regions.

Community Relations and Social Issues

Sarma urged Muslim leaders to understand why Hindus welcome them but do not receive the same treatment in return. "Muslim leaders have to see why Hindus are welcoming them, but Muslims are not returning the gesture to the Hindus," he said. He also called on Muslim legislators to help curb social issues like child marriage within their community.

"If as a Hindu I can understand the pain of the Muslim underage girls, why can’t the Muslim MLAs feel the pain of their own girls?" Sarma questioned. He also mentioned concerns about migrants entering Assam from Bangladesh due to the closure of textile industries there and Rohingyas entering through Tripura over the last few months.

Future Legislative Measures

Sarma announced plans to introduce a law in April ensuring marriages occur in a dignified manner. He stressed that youngsters should seek family approval for marriages rather than eloping or falling victim to impersonation on social media during courtship. "For a steady family, a dignified marriage is a must. We will bring a law in this regard in April," he said without providing further details.

The Chief Minister reiterated his commitment to addressing communal issues while maintaining peace in Assam. "There has to be reconciliation and discussions have to take place… as home minister, I will not allow communal problems," he asserted.