Guwahati, 15th August: On India’s 78th Independence Day, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma delivered a poignant address, raising serious concerns about the plight of minority communities in violence-stricken Bangladesh. Speaking during the celebrations, CM Sarma expressed deep sympathy for the Hindus, Christians, Buddhists, and Jains facing increasing instability and uncertainty in the neighboring country.
Sarma began his speech by reflecting on the historical context of India’s independence and the unintended consequences of the partition. “As we celebrate our hard-won independence, my thoughts are with the minority communities in Bangladesh. I am deeply worried about their future amidst the ongoing crisis,” he stated. He highlighted that the Hindus in what was once East and West Pakistan, who had fought alongside other Indians for a unified nation, were suddenly turned into minorities after the partition—a decision that, he noted, was reluctantly accepted by the leadership of that time.
Expressing confidence in the current government, Sarma remarked, “I am confident that under the resolute leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Hindus in Bangladesh will be protected.” He also extended his condolences to the Hindu community in Bangladesh, who have been recent victims of violence, underscoring the urgency and severity of the situation.
In addition to his concerns for the minorities, CM Sarma praised the efforts of the Border Security Force (BSF) and Assam Police in preventing unauthorized crossings into India amidst the turmoil. “It is our constitutional duty to secure our borders and prevent any illegal entry from Bangladesh,” he emphasized, lauding the security forces’ dedication to safeguarding India’s territorial integrity.
Sarma concluded his address by urging Prime Minister Modi to take diplomatic measures to protect the Hindu population in Bangladesh. He called for international intervention to ensure the safety and rights of these vulnerable communities, highlighting the broader need for regional stability and humanitarian protection.