In a recent campaign rally held in Dhakuakhana, Lakhimpur district, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made a controversial statement regarding the state’s Muslim community, specifically targeting those referred to as ‘Miyas’. Sarma declared that if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is victorious in the upcoming Assembly elections, his government would take decisive action against this group, asserting a commitment to protect the rights of what he termed the ‘indigenous people’ of Assam.
Sarma’s remarks come amidst a charged political atmosphere in Assam and reflect a broader narrative that has emerged in the region regarding undocumented immigrants. The term ‘Miya’ has historically been used in a derogatory manner to describe Bengali-speaking Muslims, many of whom are believed to have migrated from Bangladesh. However, the community has sought to reclaim the term as a form of identity and pride over the years.
The Chief Minister’s speech suggested a hardline approach, emphasizing that the government had previously taken steps to politically marginalize these groups. He stated, “We broke their hands and legs politically,” referring to efforts that his administration believes have curtailed the influence of undocumented immigrants in the state. This rhetoric is part of a larger strategy adopted by the BJP in Assam, positioning the party as a protector of Assamese identity and culture against perceived external threats.
In recent months, Sarma has faced backlash for his inflammatory comments aimed at the ‘Miyas’. He has openly claimed that it is his responsibility to ensure they “suffer” politically, a statement that has drawn criticism from various quarters, including human rights activists and opposition leaders. The portrayal of ‘Miyas’ as a political adversary taps into long-standing anxieties regarding immigration and cultural preservation among certain segments of Assam’s population.
As the Assembly elections approach, this rhetoric is likely to intensify, with the BJP seeking to consolidate its voter base by appealing to those who fear the loss of their cultural identity. The party’s strategy appears to be not just about winning elections but also reshaping the political landscape of Assam by framing the narrative around immigration and local identity. The outcome of these elections could have significant implications for communal relations in the state and the future of Assamese politics.
