The Assam Legislative Assembly has unanimously voted to discontinue its 87-year-old practice of adjourning proceedings for two hours every Friday to accommodate Muslim legislators’ prayers. This move, effective from the next session, aligns the Assembly’s Friday schedule with that of other weekdays, reflecting a commitment to secularism and legislative efficiency.
Historical Context
The tradition of a Friday recess dates back to 1937 during British colonial rule. Initiated under the leadership of Syed Muhammad Saadulla of the Muslim League, the then Premier of Assam, the Assembly would adjourn at 11:30 AM on Fridays, resuming at 3:00 PM. This break allowed Muslim members to attend ‘Jumma’ prayers. While the official rules did not explicitly state the purpose of the recess, it became customary for facilitating religious observance.
Catalyst for Change
The decision to abolish the Friday break was spearheaded by Speaker Biswajit Daimary, who emphasized the importance of upholding the secular principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution. He proposed that the Assembly’s proceedings on Fridays should mirror those of other days, without special accommodations for any particular religion. This proposal was presented to the Assembly’s Rules Committee, which unanimously agreed to amend Rule 11 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business.
Legislative Proceedings
On August 30, 2024, the final day of the Assembly’s autumn session, members adopted the motion to amend the existing rule. Consequently, from the forthcoming winter session, the Assembly will convene from 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM on all weekdays, including Fridays, eliminating the previous two-hour recess.
Reactions and Implications
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma lauded the Assembly’s decision, stating that by eliminating the ‘Jumma’ break, the legislature has “prioritized productivity and shed another vestige of colonial baggage.” He expressed gratitude to Speaker Daimary and the legislators for their unanimous support of this historic change.
The move has been widely regarded as a step towards reinforcing the secular fabric of the state’s legislative processes. By standardizing the Assembly’s schedule, the decision reflects a commitment to equal treatment of all members, irrespective of their religious affiliations.
Broader Context
This development in Assam is part of a larger trend across India, where institutions are reevaluating and, in some cases, discontinuing practices rooted in colonial-era policies. The abolition of the Friday ‘Namaz break’ underscores a shift towards secularism and modernization in legislative procedures, ensuring that governmental operations are free from religious considerations.
The Assam Legislative Assembly’s decision to end the decades-old Friday recess for ‘Namaz’ marks a significant moment in the state’s legislative history. By aligning Friday’s schedule with the rest of the week, the Assembly has demonstrated a commitment to secularism, inclusivity, and legislative efficiency, setting a precedent for other legislative bodies in the country.
