Guwahati, 28th August: In a heated session of the Assam Assembly on August 27, AIUDF MLA Rafiqul Islam launched a strong critique against Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for his recent remarks about the “Miya” community. Islam accused Sarma of engaging in divisive politics and failing to uphold the rights of all citizens in the state.
“It is the Chief Minister’s duty to ensure the safety and security of all 3.4 crore people of Assam,” Islam stated. “Instead, his comments showed favoritism towards one community while disregarding another, which is unacceptable.”
Islam further condemned Sarma’s suggestion that residents from certain regions of Assam should avoid traveling to others. “The Chief Minister has no right to restrict the movement of people within our state,” Islam asserted, stressing the importance of free movement and unity.
The controversy emerged during a debate on law and order issues in the assembly, following an adjournment motion brought by opposition parties, including the Congress and AIUDF, in response to recent incidents such as the gang rape of a 14-year-old girl in Nagaon district.
Sarma’s remarks, including his statement, “I won’t let Assam become a land of Miyas,” sparked immediate criticism. In defense, Sarma explained, “I urge the Miya-Muslim community not to forcefully settle in indigenous Assamese areas as it could exacerbate societal tensions and security issues.”
He further added, “I am not against Islam, but I will not stay silent if Hindus’ land is being taken and girls are being tortured, even if it puts my life at risk.”