Bengali-Speaking Muslims Want To Become Indigenous To Assam? Here are CM Sarma's Guidelines To Do So

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has outlined conditions for migrant Bangladesh-origin Bengali-speaking Muslims, referred to as ’miya,’ to be recognised as indigenous people of the state.

Sarma emphasised that they should not have more than two children and should refrain from practicing polygamy, as these practices are not part of Assamese culture.

He also stated that if they wish to be considered indigenous, they should not marry off their minor daughters, as per a report by The Economic Times.

Sarma emphasised the importance of education, urging them to send their children to mainstream schools, instead of madrassas and encouraging them to pursue careers as doctors and engineers.

He highlighted the significance of cultural assimilation, suggesting that giving up certain practices and embracing Assamese culture could lead to their recognition as indigenous over time.

Additionally, Sarma raised concerns about encroachment on 'satras' (Vaishnavite monasteries) land by Bengali-speaking Muslims, questioning their claim to indigeneity.

The Muslim population in Assam is substantial, with Muslims constituting over 34 per cent of the state's total population according to the 2011 census. This population includes two distinct groups — Bengali-speaking and Bangladesh-origin migrant Muslims, and Assamese-speaking indigenous Muslims.

Sarma stated, "Instead of sending your children to madrassas, educate them to become doctors and engineers, if you want to be called indigenous."

He added that they should also start sending their daughters to schools and give them rights over their fathers' properties.

"These are the differences between them and the indigenous people of the state. If they can give up these practices and imbibe the culture of Assamese people, at some point, they too can become indigenous," Sarma said.

In 2022, the Assam cabinet recognised approximately 40 lakh Assamese-speaking Muslims as "indigenous Assamese Muslims," distinguishing them from migrant Bengali-speaking Muslims. This distinction was made to acknowledge the historical and cultural differences between the two groups.

However, a significant portion of the Muslim population in Assam consists of Bangladesh-origin migrants, with Assamese-speaking indigenous Muslims representing only about 37 per cent of the total Muslim population, while the migrant Bengali-speaking Muslims make up the remaining 63 per cent.

The cabinet-approved 'indigenous' Assamese Muslims include five groups — Goria, Moria, Jolah (only those living in tea gardens), Desi, and Syed (only the Assamese-speaking).