Assam CM cites 1950 law to justify the state government’s new push to deport illegal immigrants, a move that has reignited political and legal controversy in Assam. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended the decision by referencing the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act, 1950, arguing that it still holds legal authority to safeguard the rights of indigenous communities.
Speaking at an event in Guwahati, Sarma stated, “Assam CM cites 1950 law not to divide but to protect the rights of indigenous people.” He said the law is still in force and must serve its original purpose.
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CM Asserts 1950 Law Still Holds Power
Sarma argued that the 1950 Act, passed by a Congress government, empowers the state to expel anyone who entered Assam illegally. He said the law aimed to prevent disruptions caused by mass migration, especially in the early years after Partition.
According to Sarma, Assam cannot ignore the threats illegal immigration poses to its culture and economy. “We are only upholding a law made for Assam. If it applied then, it must apply now,” he told reporters.
He said the government would soon announce measures to identify and deport undocumented immigrants. However, he did not give specific timelines.
Opposition Slams the Move as Divisive
Leaders from the Congress and AIUDF hit back quickly. They said the CM’s remarks show the BJP’s strategy to polarize voters before elections. Congress MLA Debabrata Saikia accused the CM of misusing an outdated law to harass communities.
“This move lacks clarity and legal basis. It’s about politics, not governance,” said Saikia. AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal added that the step aims to create fear among minorities and provoke unrest.
The Opposition demanded a clear legal framework and independent oversight to avoid misuse.
Legal Opinions Remain Split
Some legal experts backed Sarma’s interpretation of the law. They said the 1950 Act remains valid and gives the state certain powers. However, others pointed out that newer laws like the Citizenship Act and Supreme Court rulings limit how the 1950 Act can be used today.
Constitutional analyst Dr. Anirban Bhattacharya said, “The Assam CM citing 1950 law may be technically legal, but its implementation could invite serious legal challenges.”
He warned that the absence of detailed criteria might lead to wrongful deportation or conflict with current rights-based frameworks.
Immigration Has Long Troubled Assam
Assam has faced migration-related issues for decades. The Assam Movement in the 1980s and the recent NRC exercise highlighted the tension between preserving local identity and managing migrant populations.
Sarma’s remarks appeared aimed at addressing long-standing fears among native Assamese groups. He said, “Illegal immigration threatens our economy, culture, and security. We must act before it’s too late.”
He added that genuine citizens have no reason to worry, regardless of their religion or ethnicity.
Civil Groups and Activists Raise Concerns
Human rights activists and civil society organizations voiced concerns over the plan. The Assam Human Rights Forum said the government must avoid arbitrary decisions. Member Rina Das urged the administration to ensure fair processes and judicial review.
“We need clarity on who qualifies as illegal. Without transparency, innocent people will suffer,” she said.
Several student unions also urged the CM to create legal safeguards before implementing any action. They warned that hasty decisions could worsen tensions.
CM Urges Calm and Cooperation
Despite the backlash, Sarma asked citizens to remain calm and support lawful actions. He said the government’s goal is not to divide but to protect Assam’s long-term interests. He also asked local leaders to help identify genuine concerns and report misuse of authority.
Sarma thanked the central government for supporting Assam’s efforts to manage immigration. He said new policies would reflect both the state’s needs and the rights of citizens.
By invoking an old law, the Assam CM citing 1950 law brought immigration policy back to center stage. Supporters say it’s a strong step to protect Assamese identity. Critics argue it risks promoting division and fear.
As the government prepares its next steps, clarity, legality, and compassion will be key. Assam’s future lies in balancing its cultural preservation with the values of democracy and inclusion.
