Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is facing major criticism for his strong stance on illegal immigration. But a deep look shows his concerns are backed by history, law, and the need to protect Assam’s future. This is not about politics; it’s about preserving a state’s identity and security.
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| Why Himanta Sarma is Right on Assam Immigration |
In the heat of Assam’s election season, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made headlines. He spoke firmly about “Miya Muslims,” a term often linked to Bengali-origin Muslims in Assam. Many are accused of being illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. Opposition parties like Congress and AIUDF called his words hate speech. They said he was dividing people.
However, Sarma’s position is not new. It comes from decades of worry in Assam about illegal immigration, changing populations, and saving the culture of indigenous people. His views are supported by India’s Supreme Court. This article explains why his tough stance is a necessary response to a real problem.
The History of Illegal Immigration in Assam: A Silent Invasion
Assam’s fight with illegal immigration is old and complex. It started before India’s independence but grew worse after 1947 and the 1971 Bangladesh War. Millions of people crossed the border, changing Assam’s demographics forever.
This led to huge protests in the 1970s and 80s. The result was the Assam Accord of 1985. This agreement promised to find and send back people who entered Assam illegally after March 25, 1971.
But the work was slow and incomplete. The National Register of Citizens (NRC) in 2019 found over 1.9 million people who could not prove they were Indian citizens. Yet, very few have been deported due to legal and political delays.
Sarma is now taking strong steps. He asked BJP workers to challenge suspicious names on voter lists. He says this will stop “vote theft” by non-citizens. His goal is to protect Assam’s elections and resources.
Supreme Court Backs Assam: Illegal Migration is a National Threat
The Supreme Court of India has called illegal immigration a “demographic invasion.” This is the strongest support for Sarma’s actions.
In a 2005 judgment, the Supreme Court used strong words. It said illegal migration was like a “silent and invidious invasion.” The court warned that parts of Assam could become Muslim-majority areas. This, it said, was a threat to national unity and Assam’s culture.
Sarma has used these very words to defend himself. “Acknowledging this reality is neither hatred nor communalism,” he said on social media. He clarifies that he is only talking about illegal Bangladeshi migrants, not Indian citizens or indigenous Assamese Muslims.
Recent data shows the problem is urgent. Sarma says the Miya population could be as high as 38% in the next census. He blames years of unchecked border crossings for this rise.
Why Do People in Assam Support Himanta Biswa Sarma?
Many indigenous Assamese people agree with CM Sarma. They feel their land, jobs, and culture are under threat.
For years, local communities have seen forests and farmland taken over. They face more competition for work and resources. Their unique Assamese identity feels diluted. Sarma’s strong talk and actions, like eviction drives and strict voter list checks, feel like a necessary defense to them.
His critics say he is creating fear and division. But Sarma calls this a “civilizational fight” to save Assam’s soul. For his voters, ignoring the immigration issue would be a betrayal.
The Way Forward for Assam: Security and Harmony
The solution needs to be firm but fair. Assam is a beautiful mix of cultures and must remain so.
The focus must be on:
- Strong Borders: Preventing new illegal entries.
- Legal Process: Fairly identifying and deporting those who are not citizens, as per law.
- Protecting Citizens: Ensuring all legal residents of Assam, from every community, feel safe and valued.
Himanta Biswa Sarma’s tough words have started a crucial conversation. While his language can be sharp, the problem he highlights is real. Assam’s future peace and identity depend on solving the illegal immigration issue.
Sarma’s stance, guided by the Supreme Court’s warnings, is a bold attempt to find that solution.
FAQs Related illegal Immigrants in Assam
Who are Miya Muslims in Assam?
"Miya" is a term often used for Bengali-origin Muslims in Assam. In the political debate, it is frequently linked to the issue of illegal immigration from Bangladesh. It's important to distinguish between illegal migrants and the many Indian citizens of Bengali-origin Muslim faith who are legal residents.
What did the Supreme Court say about illegal immigration in Assam?
In a landmark 2005 judgment, the Supreme Court of India described illegal immigration into Assam as a "silent and invidious demographic invasion." It warned that this posed a threat to national unity and Assam's cultural fabric, validating concerns that shape current policies.
What is the NRC and how many illegal immigrants were found in Assam?
The National Register of Citizens (NRC) is an official record of legal Indian citizens in Assam. The 2019 update aimed to identify illegal immigrants. It excluded over 1.9 million people from the final list, who were considered "non-citizens." The process and fate of those excluded remain a complex and ongoing issue.
Why is illegal immigration a problem for Assam?
Illegal immigration is seen as a major problem for Assam due to several factors: significant demographic changes straining resources, competition for land and jobs, concerns over the dilution of indigenous Assamese culture and language, and impacts on electoral integrity through suspected "vote bank" politics.
