Are Bengali-speaking Hindus Thriving Under BJP Governance in Assam?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Bengali-speaking Hindus feel more secure under BJP governance.
- The government has addressed community grievances effectively.
- Illegal migration is being actively monitored.
- Community differences are reportedly lessening.
- Political tensions exist concerning representation and identity.
Guwahati, Sep 1 (NationPress) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma affirmed on Monday that Bengali-speaking Hindus have experienced the most favorable conditions in the state throughout the Bharatiya Janata Party’s decade-long governance.
He praised his administration for resolving longstanding issues faced by the community while also enhancing measures against illegal immigration.
Addressing reporters in the Sribhumi district after an event, Sarma stated that his government has systematically addressed the concerns of Hindu Bengalis.
“We have reinstated their Aadhaar cards and ensured no new citizenship-related cases are being brought against them,” he mentioned.
The Chief Minister claimed that under BJP leadership, the administration has thwarted numerous attempts by Bangladeshi nationals to illegally enter the country.
“No previous administration has accomplished as much as we have. However, every action must adhere to legal protocols; otherwise, the judiciary will invalidate it,” he noted.
Sarma emphasized that the divide between Assamese and Bengali-speaking communities has “diminished,” stating, “Today, Hindus recognize themselves by faith rather than language.”
When asked about the extent of infiltration, he refrained from disclosing numbers, saying, “We will reveal it when the time is right.”
He cited potential infiltration routes through Tripura, Dawki in Meghalaya, and areas of Assam like Mankachar and Sribhumi, while asserting that security forces are actively repelling illegal entrants.
The Chief Minister acknowledged the arrest of middlemen involved in facilitating cross-border movements, including Hindus. “In Tripura, most of these agents are Hindus, demanding Rs 20,000 to assist someone in crossing,” Sarma stated.
In response to criticism from TMC MP Sushmita Dev regarding the hardships faced by Bengali-speaking Hindus, Sarma accused her of “attempting to fracture Hindu society.”
He remarked, “She has abandoned her roots. No political figure forsakes their origin. Today, she visits Assam as a guest.”
Sushmita Dev, originally from Silchar, had previously represented the constituency in the Lok Sabha.
Regarding BJP leader Amit Malviya’s comments on the Bengali language, Sarma distanced himself, stating, “I am unaware of his remarks. What truly matters is what Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulates.”
He underscored that the Centre has accorded Bengali the designation of a Classical Language, highlighting its significance.