Guwahati, July 21, 2024 — In a pointed critique, Congress leader Pawan Khera has accused Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of using misleading data to create societal divisions. Khera’s rebuke follows Sarma’s recent statements regarding the Muslim population in Assam, which Khera alleges are intended to foster discord among the populace.
“He’s attempting to divide people with false data. When he was with the Congress, he didn’t act this way. Since joining the BJP, it’s as if he’s undergone a complete transformation,” Khera asserted.
This confrontation arises from Sarma’s remarks on July 17, where he expressed grave concerns over Assam’s changing demographics, describing it as a “life and death” issue. Sarma claimed the Muslim population in the state had risen significantly from 12 percent in 1951 to 40 percent today.
“Changing demographics is a critical issue for me. The Muslim population in Assam has surged to 40%. Back in 1951, it was just 12 percent. We’ve lost many districts. This isn’t a political issue for me; it’s a matter of life and death,” Sarma emphasized, stressing his administration’s dedication to addressing illegal immigration.
Sarma further alleged that illegal immigrants are exploiting tribal communities by marrying tribal women without adhering to legal processes. “Illegal immigrants are marrying tribal daughters without following due legal processes. Our BJP government will enact laws to prevent such exploitation,” he declared.
On July 20, Sarma referenced an analysis by a “noted Assamese journalist,” predicting that Assam could become a Muslim-majority state by 2051, which he cited to reinforce his concerns about demographic changes.
The escalating exchange between Khera and Sarma highlights the ongoing debate over demographic shifts and their implications for Assam’s social fabric.