Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has once again drawn national attention with a bold statement on the state’s changing demographics. Speaking at a public event, he claimed that Assam’s Muslim population could touch 50% in the coming years if birth control measures are not implemented among specific sections.
This warning comes amid Sarma’s ongoing campaign advocating population stabilization in regions with high fertility rates. He urged Muslim religious leaders and intellectuals to help curb what he called a “population explosion” among Bengali-speaking Muslims in lower Assam.
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Sarma says ‘unchecked growth will change Assam’s identity’
According to Sarma, unchecked population growth in Muslim-majority districts could affect Assam’s cultural and political identity. “If this trend continues, the Muslim population will reach 50% very soon. This will change everything—jobs, politics, administration,” he said.
He clarified that his remarks were not anti-Muslim but a call for socio-economic balance. Sarma added that Assamese Muslims who speak the local language and have integrated with Assamese society should not be alarmed.
“The Assamese Muslim population has already accepted family planning. But Bengali-origin Muslims, especially in Barpeta, Dhubri, and Goalpara, are still having large families,” the CM noted.
Data behind the concerns
Census data shows that Assam’s Muslim population has been steadily rising. As per the 2011 Census, Muslims formed 34.22% of the population. In districts like Dhubri and Barpeta, Muslims already constitute more than 70%.
Sarma cited this trend to argue for strong steps, including awareness drives, religious sermons promoting family planning, and women’s education. “We need madrasas and mosques to speak about this. The change must come from within,” he said.
Assam government promoting birth control and education
The Assam government has already started awareness programs on population control. Health workers are conducting door-to-door visits in rural Muslim-dominated areas, educating families on contraception and family planning methods.
In addition, the government is working to increase access to healthcare for women. A recent health department report revealed that districts with low female literacy also had high fertility rates. In response, the state is planning more schools and health centres in remote areas.
Sarma said, “We are focusing on development. But unless the population is under control, poverty and illiteracy will persist.”
Opposition hits back, accuses CM of fear-mongering
However, Sarma’s remarks sparked criticism from opposition parties and civil rights groups. The Congress called it a divisive tactic to distract from real issues like inflation and unemployment.
Party leader Debabrata Saikia said, “The CM is again playing the communal card. Why doesn’t he talk about poverty and job creation for all communities?”
All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), which draws support from Bengali-speaking Muslims, accused Sarma of targeting a specific group for political gain. The party’s MLA Rafiqul Islam said, “Population growth is a national issue. Why is he only blaming Muslims?”
Muslim leaders respond with caution
Some Muslim leaders acknowledged the concern but urged the government to handle it sensitively. A group of clerics from lower Assam issued a joint statement urging community members to consider family planning in line with national development goals.
“We accept that poverty and high birth rates go hand in hand. But shaming one group will not help. The government should provide health services and education instead of making provocative statements,” said Maulana Arshad Ali from Goalpara.
Others pointed out that awareness programs should include all underdeveloped areas, regardless of religion or ethnicity.
Experts stress balanced approach
Demographers and social scientists urged caution while interpreting population statistics. Dr. Ayesha Ahmed, a professor at Gauhati University, said, “Yes, the Muslim population is growing faster in some districts. But overall, fertility rates are falling across Assam.”
She added that economic growth, female education, and employment have a bigger impact on birth rates than religious identity. “The state should focus on empowerment, not fear,” she advised.
Looking ahead: Can awareness change the trend?
The Sarma government appears firm on its stand. Officials said the awareness drive will continue and more health infrastructure will be set up in densely populated areas.
The Assam State Population Control Policy, launched in 2021, links government jobs and welfare benefits to family size. It also offers financial incentives for families with fewer children.
Despite the controversy, Sarma insisted that the issue is not religious but demographic. “I will continue to speak the truth. I want Assam’s future to be safe and stable for everyone,” he said.
As Assam heads towards major elections in 2026, demographic issues are likely to remain a core political theme.
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