Guwahati, August 28, 2024 – Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma issued a stern warning against forced settlements in indigenous areas, highlighting the potential for heightened social tensions and security concerns across the state. Addressing the Assam Legislative Assembly, Sarma specifically urged the Miya-Muslim community to exercise caution and respect local sentiments to avoid escalating conflicts.
“My request to the Miya-Muslim community is not to forcefully try to settle in indigenous Assamese areas against their will,” Sarma stated firmly. “This will aggravate societal fault lines and become a possible security issue.”
Sarma’s remarks reflect growing anxieties about demographic shifts within Assam, particularly in regions like Karbi Anglong and the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), where local populations have shown resistance to new settlements. The Chief Minister underscored the challenges of managing such tensions, cautioning that unauthorized settlements could lead to significant unrest.
“I cannot provide security for those who insist on going where they are not welcome,” Sarma warned, urging patience and cooperation from all communities. He advised, “Go when they want you to. Don’t go forcefully against the will of Upper Assam people.”
Sarma also noted that concerns over demographic changes are shared across political lines, referencing opposition leader Debabrata Saikia, an MLA from Nazira constituency, who has reportedly voiced opposition to Miya-Muslim settlements in Upper Assam.
The Chief Minister’s comments come at a time when Assam is grappling with complex social dynamics, and his call for restraint reflects the state government’s focus on maintaining harmony and security amid shifting demographics.