Outrage Erupts: Assam MLA’s Controversial ‘Red Carpet for Miyas’ Comment Sparks Fury Amid Gang Rape Tragedy in Guwahati

Controversial Remarks by AIUDF MLA Trigger Backlash in Assam

GUWAHATI: AIUDF MLA Ashraful Hussain has sparked controversy with his recent comments on Sunday night. Hussain suggested that "Miyas"—a term often used pejoratively to refer to immigrant Muslims of Bangladeshi origin—should receive respectful welcomes with traditional Assamese symbols, such as the handwoven gamosa and tamul-paan, if they are to work in the upper Assam districts.

Hussain’s remarks followed public outrage against "Miyas" and the backdrop of a heinous crime that took place on August 22, when three minority community youths gang-raped a Class 10 student in Nagaon district. The incident led several ethnic organizations in upper Assam to demand the expulsion of Bengali-speaking immigrants, causing labor shortages in local industries, particularly brick kilns, as many workers belong to the immigrant population residing in lower Assam.

Ashraful Hussain, the youngest MLA at 27 in the Assam assembly, raised concerns over the security and dignity of these workers. He questioned the safety under which they would work in upper Assam, pointing out that they have other employment opportunities in places like Delhi, Kerala, and across lower Assam where they can earn approximately Rs 500 a day near their villages.

The situation remains tense as the call for respectful integration of immigrant workers clashes with rising ethnic sentiments and the pressing labor shortages affecting regional industries.

End of the article.

Original Story https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/assam-mla-stirs-row-with-red-carpet-for-miyas-remark/articleshow/113407939.cms
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