Guwahati, Jan 8 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has once again expressed his concerns that changes in the state's demographics might significantly affect its population structure. He claimed that the number of Bangladeshi Muslims could constitute almost 40 percent of Assam's population in the next Census.

During a press interaction following a governmental event, CM Sarma stated that the upcoming Census is likely to unveil some 'unfortunate news' for Assam, suggesting that the population of Muslims with Bangladeshi roots has been on the rise for many years.

"The Census will show that the population of Bangladeshi Muslims may reach approximately 40 percent of the state's total population," he mentioned.

He recalled a warning he issued last July, predicting that if the current growth rates persist, the Muslim demographic in Assam could nearly equal the Hindu population by 2041.

According to the 2011 Census, Assam's total population stood at 3.12 crore, with Muslims numbering 1.07 crore, representing 34.22 percent, while Hindus accounted for 1.92 crore, or 61.47 percent.

The national Census, initially set for 2021 but postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, is now planned to occur in two stages. The house listing and housing Census is scheduled from April to September 2026, followed by population enumeration in February 2027.

CM Sarma also addressed the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Assam, noting that all BJP MLAs and booth-level agents have been instructed to identify any 'doubtful person' through the appropriate legal channels.

"We aim to ensure that questionable Miya Muslim votes are recognized and eliminated. Our MLAs and Booth Level Agents have been directed to formally raise objections," he stated.

Rejecting claims from the Opposition that voters opposing the BJP are being selectively removed from the rolls, CM Sarma asserted that any political party feeling that eligible voters are excluded should approach the authorities with the relevant forms, rather than holding press conferences.

In a critical remark directed at the Congress party, CM Sarma declared that the party has lost its prominence in Assam.

"Which indigenous person, except for illegal Bangladeshis, would vote for Congress?" he questioned.

He further claimed that the Opposition would have minimal influence in the upcoming state Assembly elections scheduled for March–April 2026, stating that they are not active at the grassroots level.

Regarding seat-sharing for the forthcoming Assam elections, the Chief Minister noted that the BJP would finalize its decision by February 15.