Demands for "Miyaland" Emerge During Anti-Encroachment Drive in Golaghat; CM Sarma Rejects Outright, Says Separatism Will Not Be Tolerated in Assam.
Assam CM: A controversial statement has ignited the political landscape of Assam amidst an ongoing anti-encroachment drive in the Golaghat district. During the removal of illegal occupations in the sensitive Uriamghat area bordering Nagaland, an encroacher sparked outrage by stating that if the Bodo community could demand Bodoland, then why couldn't "Miya people" demand "Miyaland"?
Chief Minister Sarma's Firm Stance
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has completely rejected this demand, stating that the dream of "Miyaland" can never be realized in India. He sharply remarked that those making such demands are welcome to go to Bangladesh or Afghanistan to pursue them, and the Assam government is ready to assist in their relocation.
Native Residents vs. Illegal Infiltration
The issue is not merely about removing encroachments. Assam has long debated illegal infiltration and demographic changes. Since 1971, the influx of Bangladeshi Muslims into Assam has drastically altered the population in several districts. This was the core issue that fueled the Assam Movement from 1979 to 1985 and laid the foundation for the Assam Accord. However, native residents still believe that the promises made have not been fulfilled.
11,000 Bighas of Land Encroached Upon in Golaghat
Approximately 11,000 bighas of land were illegally occupied in the Rengma Reserve Forest, where betel nut cultivation and other illicit activities were flourishing. In the first phase, the administration reclaimed 4.2 hectares of land and removed over 120 illegal shops and structures.
Controversial Presentation of "Miya" Identity Not New
This is not the first time the "Miya" identity has been presented in a controversial manner. In 2020, Congress MLA Sherman Ali Ahmed proposed establishing a "Miya Museum" at the Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, which faced widespread opposition.
Comparison with Bodoland Movement Inappropriate
The Bodoland movement was based on ethnic identity and a decades-long political struggle. In contrast, the demand for "Miyaland" is being made by individuals involved in illegal occupation and facing citizenship doubts. This could pose a threat to the state's integrity and social balance.
Political Reactions and Protests
Major student and civil organizations in Assam have protested against the demand for "Miyaland." Slogans such as "Miyaland will not be formed on Assam's soil" have resonated in public forums. Questions are also being raised about the silence of the Congress party. Critics have described the lack of response from senior leaders like Gaurav Gogoi as the Congress's appeasement policy.
BJP Targets Congress
BJP spokesperson Kishore Kumar Upadhyay accused the Congress of protecting Bangladeshi infiltrators during its rule, leading to a disproportionate increase in the Muslim population in districts like Dhubri, Barpeta, Darrang, Morigaon, and South Salmara. He warned that if this trend continues, native residents in Assam will become a minority.
Action Against Encroachment in Guwahati Also
Chief Minister Sarma announced a special survey to identify illegal occupants residing in the hills of Guwahati. He clarified that this action is only against those who have settled illegally and not against the original inhabitants of Assam. So far, the state government has freed 182 square kilometers of land from encroachment.
