Goalpara demographic change has sparked political controversy in Assam, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma raising fresh concerns over what he described as an “alarming shift” in population patterns. During a public address, Sarma accused the Congress party of deliberately ignoring the issue to protect its vote bank, calling for urgent action to safeguard the region’s demographic balance.
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Himanta Biswa Sarma Cites Population Pattern as a Concern
Addressing a gathering in western Assam’s Goalpara district, CM Sarma warned of an “alarming change” in the district’s population structure. He claimed that rapid demographic changes were threatening local traditions, identity, and harmony.
“Look at the census patterns and growth rates. The figures don’t lie,” Sarma said. “This is not just about numbers, but about the long-term stability of Assam.”
He alleged that illegal migration and vote-bank politics were key drivers behind the change. “Certain political forces have deliberately ignored this transformation for years. We will not,” he added, taking a direct jab at the Congress party.
Congress Under Fire for “Turning a Blind Eye”
During his speech, Sarma questioned the Congress party’s silence on the issue. He accused them of maintaining a convenient silence to safeguard their vote bank, particularly in Muslim-majority areas like Goalpara.
“When Congress was in power, they refused to act on intelligence reports or community concerns. Their politics revolved around appeasement,” the CM said.
He urged the public to ask their local Congress representatives whether they supported the safeguarding of Assam’s indigenous population. “If they support you, ask them to speak up now. Not later,” he challenged.
Congress leaders, however, have responded cautiously. Senior spokesperson Debabrata Saikia dismissed the CM’s claims as “divisive rhetoric” aimed at polarizing voters ahead of the upcoming bypolls.
Demographic Trends Under Scrutiny
Goalpara, located in western Assam along the Meghalaya border, has been at the center of Assam’s demographic debate for years. According to official records, the district has witnessed a significant shift in population composition, with a rapid increase in migrant settlements over the last three decades.
Locals allege that forest land and government property are being encroached upon by “new settlers.” While there are conflicting views on the exact scale and legality of such settlements, Sarma’s government has repeatedly claimed that demographic transformation is “planned and politically protected.”
In 2021, the Assam government launched Mission Basundhara, aiming to digitize land records and remove illegal encroachments. CM Sarma hinted that the next phase of the mission would pay special attention to Goalpara.
Political Implications and Community Response
The CM’s remarks are seen as a strategic move to consolidate support among indigenous communities ahead of the 2026 state elections. His party, the BJP, has been vocal on the issue of illegal migration and NRC (National Register of Citizens) implementation since coming to power in 2016.
Local community leaders in Goalpara expressed mixed reactions. Some supported the CM’s concern, citing stress on local resources, education, and employment due to rising population. Others urged the government to approach the issue with fairness and avoid stirring communal tension.
A community leader from Goalpara town said, “Yes, we’ve seen changes, but not everyone coming in is illegal. Many are poor, displaced people who need help.”
Government Action Plan in the Pipeline
CM Sarma said that the government is preparing a report based on updated voter rolls, health records, and land use data to analyze the depth of demographic change in western Assam districts.
He also promised that development schemes would prioritize indigenous Assamese families, especially in education and land ownership.
“We are not against any community. But we are for balance, order, and fairness,” Sarma concluded.
Looking Ahead: Political Messaging or Policy Push?
As Assam CM raises alarm over changing demographics in Goalpara, it is evident that the issue will be a focal point in political debates moving forward. The CM’s firm stance is likely to energize his base, but it may also draw criticism for inflaming communal sentiments.
Whether this speech leads to concrete administrative actions or remains a political message remains to be seen. For now, the spotlight is back on Goalpara — and on the Congress’s long-standing silence.
