Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has extended his support to citizens protesting against what he calls a growing encroachment threat to Assamese identity. During a recent public event, Sarma encouraged people to continue lawful protests to ensure the preservation of their language, land, and cultural ethos.
CM: Encroachers pose cultural and demographic threat
Speaking at a gathering in Nagaon, Sarma addressed public concerns over land encroachment and demographic changes. He said the state is witnessing silent attempts to disrupt the ethnic balance through illegal settlement.
“Assam is not just a land, it is our identity. If we lose our land, language, and culture, then what remains of being Assamese?” the Chief Minister asked the crowd, stirring strong emotional responses.
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According to him, protests to protect Assamese identity are necessary, but they must remain within the framework of the law.
Sarma also drew attention to the rising influx of suspected illegal migrants and encroachers, especially in fringe and forest areas. He warned that these issues could alter the region’s social fabric if not addressed firmly and legally.
Support for student bodies and civil society groups
The Chief Minister expressed solidarity with student groups like the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) and other civil bodies actively participating in awareness campaigns. He acknowledged their role in defending Assamese rights and called for more constructive participation from young leaders.
However, he cautioned against violent actions or communal rhetoric. “Our constitution gives us the right to protest, but let us ensure it remains non-violent and within legal bounds. We cannot allow fringe elements to hijack this movement,” Sarma emphasized.
He added that if public pressure increases peacefully, the government would feel more empowered to take strict action against unlawful settlers.
Task forces and eviction drives
To match public sentiment, the Assam government has already intensified eviction drives in several districts. Sarma said the administration has formed task forces to monitor and prevent future encroachments.
The Chief Minister reported that over 3,000 hectares of land were reclaimed in the last two years. He also promised that authorities would continue operations where forest, tribal, and public lands had been taken over.
Sarma directed district officials to maintain transparency during these drives. He instructed them to ensure that genuine residents are not wrongly targeted.
He also mentioned, “Those who have legal documentation or rightful claims will not be disturbed. Our fight is against illegal occupation, not humanity.”
Protecting identity through development
While responding to questions about preserving Assamese heritage, Sarma said that cultural protection must go hand-in-hand with economic development. He highlighted schemes like the Mission Basundhara and the Orunodoi scheme as steps toward inclusive progress.
The Chief Minister believes development can empower communities and reduce tensions over identity. “If people feel secure, they will also feel less threatened. Development and identity protection are not contradictory,” he explained.
He also suggested implementing a state-level census of indigenous groups to identify demographic shifts more accurately.
Opposition reacts cautiously
The Chief Minister’s remarks received mixed reactions from the Opposition. Some leaders appreciated the balanced tone of supporting protests to protect Assamese identity while upholding legal norms. Others accused the government of using cultural protection as a smokescreen for polarizing tactics.
A senior Congress leader said, “Encroachment is a concern, but the government must act fairly. Not all settlers are illegal. The administration must ensure it doesn’t unfairly target vulnerable communities.”
Meanwhile, All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) criticized Sarma’s stance as “divisive” and warned of community unrest if eviction drives become arbitrary.
Citizens divided but concerned
Public opinion in Assam remains divided. While many support the idea of protests to protect Assamese identity, others are more cautious.
Residents in areas like Sipajhar and Barpeta, which have seen multiple eviction drives, said they fear displacement despite having lived there for decades.
However, many Assamese youths support the CM’s statement. “We want to protect our roots. But yes, protests should be peaceful. We don’t want violence,” said a college student in Guwahati.
Some civil society members have also launched fact-checking initiatives to differentiate between legal residents and encroachers to ensure fairness.
Moving forward with cultural unity
Sarma ended his address with a call for unity among Assamese communities. He urged people to stay vigilant but compassionate.
“The strength of Assam lies in its cultural richness and unity. Let’s protect both with wisdom, not just emotions,” he concluded.
As Assam continues to walk the fine line between growth and heritage preservation, its citizens face the challenge of balancing democratic rights and inclusive governance. The Chief Minister’s backing of protests to protect Assamese identity has sparked both renewed activism and debate over the future of the state’s cultural integrity.
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