Tension Erupts in Assam’s Sivasagar Amid Targeting of Bengali-Muslims
Amid escalating tensions in Assam’s Sivasagar district, local organizations have began targeting Bengali-Muslims, demanding "Bangladeshis" leave the district within a week. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stirred controversy by declaring in the Assembly that he "will take sides" and prevent "Miya Muslims" from taking over Assam.
The unrest follows the alleged gangrape of a 14-year-old girl in Nagaon district on August 22, with Bengali-Muslims accused of the crime. The incident has intensified ethnic and communal tensions, as some local groups in Sivasagar called for the expulsion of Bengali-Muslims, whom they label as "Bangladeshis."
AIUDF MLA Rafiqul Islam and other opposition members raised the issue in the Assembly, stressing the legitimacy of Bengali-Muslims as Indian citizens and condemning the threats against them. Despite adjournment motions by opposition MLAs, Sarma defended his stance, attributing the unrest to social media posts by minorities and previous tensions involving the Marwari community over an unrelated assault incident.
Sarma’s remarks, equating the Bengali-Muslim migration to an attempted takeover, drew criticism. Debabrata Saikia, Leader of the Opposition, accused Sarma of divisive politics, while CPI(M) MLA Manoranjan Talukdar and Raijor Dol MLA Akhil Gogoi also voiced concerns. The speaker ultimately adjourned the House amid chaos.
Islam criticized Sarma’s statements, fearing further deterioration of the situation. He alleged that Sarma’s bias contradicts his constitutional duty to ensure security and equality for all citizens. Saikia warned of a potential "Manipur-like" crisis, urging intervention from the Union Home Ministry.
The adjournment motions were not accepted, and tensions remain high in Sivasagar. The political discourse around the issue continues to polarize communities, raising concerns over the stability and communal harmony in Assam.
Original Story https://indianexpress.com/article/india/assam-cm-himanta-biswa-sarma-wont-let-miya-muslims-take-over-9535569/
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