Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has ignited a fresh political debate by declaring that Hindus have become a minority in historic Goalpara district.
Speaking at a public rally on Thursday, Sarma warned that if the BJP government loses power, so-called “illegal Muslim encroachers” will settle wherever they wish, threatening the state’s demographic balance and social fabric.
His statements have sparked widespread discussion about demographic concerns in Goalpara, Assam, a district long regarded for its diverse communities and cultural heritage.
Read about Assam’s population statistics from the Census of India.
Goalpara’s Demographic Shifts
Goalpara district, located in western Assam, has historically been home to various ethnic and religious communities, including Hindus, Muslims, tribal groups, and indigenous Assamese people.
Recent surveys and local reports suggest significant demographic changes over the past few decades.
According to unofficial estimates cited by political leaders, Hindus now make up less than 45% of the district’s population, down from over 60% a few decades ago.
This shift has led to anxieties among local communities and become a key issue in Assam’s political discourse.
CM Sarma’s Political Message
During his speech, CM Sarma claimed the BJP is the only party committed to protecting Assam’s cultural identity and ensuring strict measures against illegal immigration.
He stated:
“If we are not in power, illegal Muslim encroachers will begin to settle wherever they choose. Our forests, tribal lands, and protected areas will be lost. We must preserve Assam’s identity.”
The Chief Minister accused opposition parties of turning a blind eye to encroachments for vote-bank politics.
His speech drew loud applause from supporters but also criticism from political rivals and rights groups who condemned it as divisive rhetoric.
Illegal Encroachment a Growing Concern
The issue of illegal encroachment in Assam has dominated headlines in recent years.
Encroachment on forest lands, tribal belts, and government land has led to numerous eviction drives, sometimes sparking tension and violence.
Goalpara’s Paikan Reserve Forest was recently in the news due to a major eviction operation aimed at removing settlers labeled as illegal encroachers.
Officials insist these actions are essential to protect the environment and uphold the law.
Opposition and Rights Groups Respond
Opposition parties swiftly criticised CM Sarma’s statements.
Leaders from the Congress and AIUDF accused him of spreading fear and dividing communities for electoral gains.
A Congress spokesperson stated:
“Assam belongs to all communities. We must work for unity, not create panic about demographic changes.”
Human rights activists have warned that inflammatory language could stoke communal tensions.
They urge the government to address demographic concerns through data-driven policies rather than political rhetoric.
Voices from Goalpara
In Goalpara itself, reactions to the Chief Minister’s statement are mixed.
Many residents acknowledge demographic shifts but urge restraint and dialogue instead of alarm.
A local Hindu community leader said:
“Yes, our numbers have declined. But we want peace and cooperation, not communal clashes.”
Muslim community leaders have condemned suggestions that their entire community is linked to illegal immigration, calling such remarks unfair and dangerous.
A local Muslim leader commented:
“We are citizens of India. We should not be blamed for demographic changes without evidence.”
Experts Call for Balanced Approach
Demographers and political analysts believe Assam’s population changes are influenced by various factors, including migration, fertility rates, and economic migration.
They stress the need for accurate data rather than assumptions.
A social scientist in Guwahati explained:
“Assam needs calm dialogue and solid data. Stirring fear helps no one and risks deepening divides.”
Experts also point to the need for better border management and legal processes to address any genuine cases of illegal immigration.
A Polarising Debate Ahead
As Assam heads toward future elections, demographic concerns in Goalpara and other districts are likely to remain a polarising issue.
CM Sarma has vowed to continue his campaign against what he terms illegal encroachment and demographic change.
Opposition parties, meanwhile, are preparing counter-campaigns focused on communal harmony and development. How this debate unfolds could significantly shape the political and social landscape of Assam in the coming years.
For more information on Assam’s demographic update.
