Will Pro-Pakistan Supporters Face Legal Action in Assam?
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Synopsis
In a recent announcement, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma warned of strict legal actions against those supporting Pakistan, following the arrest of 36 individuals, including MLA Aminul Islam, for pro-Pakistan sentiments. This controversial stance raises questions about freedom of expression and political accountability in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Assam CM warns against pro-Pakistan sentiments.
- 36 individuals arrested for online support of Pakistan.
- Aminul Islam becomes first MLA arrested for sedition.
- Political implications of government action discussed.
- AIUDF distances itself from controversial remarks.
Guwahati, May 2 (NationPress) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized on Friday that anyone endorsing Pakistan on social media or any other medium will encounter the full force of the law.
Speaking to reporters, he stated, “We will not accept any pro-Pakistan individuals in Assam. We have been enforcing strict measures against these offenders. Anyone who posts content on social media supporting Pakistan will face stringent action from the police.”
Importantly, Assam Police have apprehended at least 36 individuals from various regions of the state due to their pro-Pakistan sentiments expressed online. Among those detained, the most notable is AIUDF party MLA Aminul Islam, marking him as the first individual arrested in the state for expressing a “pro-Pakistan” opinion.
Islam, representing the Dhing Assembly constituency in Assam, was taken into custody on Thursday under sedition charges following his inflammatory remarks related to the terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam that resulted in over 20 fatalities. A video shared on social media featured Islam asserting that the Pahalgam and Pulwama attacks were orchestrated as part of a “government conspiracy.”
He claimed: “Six years ago, during the Pulwama RDX blast that killed 42 soldiers, I stated that the event was a result of a central government conspiracy aimed at winning the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.” He further alleged that what transpired in Pahalgam was a narrative propagated by the BJP, suggesting that terrorists specifically targeted Hindus while sparing Muslims. However, victims reported that the attackers did not inquire about anyone's identity before opening fire, casting doubt on the involvement of the same group behind both the Pulwama and Pahalgam incidents.
“If the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi fails to conduct a transparent investigation into this incident and attempts to create a divide between Hindus and Muslims, I would conclude that it was a conspiracy,” Islam remarked, implicating PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
In response, AIUDF chief Maulana Badaruddin Ajmal distanced the party from Islam's statements, asserting, “AIUDF supports the government. Terrorism knows no religion; those who perpetuate it act against Islam.”
Point of View
It's essential to uphold the principles of justice and freedom of expression while addressing security concerns. The government's stance against pro-Pakistan sentiments must be balanced with the right to dissent. As we navigate these complex issues, it remains vital to foster dialogue and understanding among diverse communities in Assam.
NationPress
18/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions are being taken against pro-Pakistan supporters in Assam?
The Assam government, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, is taking stringent legal action against individuals who express support for Pakistan on social media or other platforms.
Who is Aminul Islam and why was he arrested?
Aminul Islam is an MLA from the AIUDF party in Assam, arrested on sedition charges for making inflammatory statements regarding recent terrorist attacks and alleging them to be government conspiracies.
What has the AIUDF party's response been to these arrests?
AIUDF chief Maulana Badaruddin Ajmal has distanced the party from Aminul Islam's comments, affirming support for the government and condemning terrorism.
What implications does this situation have for freedom of expression?
The crackdown on pro-Pakistan sentiments raises important questions about the balance between national security and the right to free speech, which needs careful consideration in a democratic society.
How many individuals have been arrested in Assam for pro-Pakistan sentiments?
At least 36 individuals have been arrested across various regions of Assam for expressing pro-Pakistan sentiments on social media.
