Assam will be Muslim-majority by 2041, says Himanta.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that his government has initiated measures to curb population growth within the Muslim community. According to Sarma, these steps are aimed at addressing demographic changes projected to make Assam a Muslim-majority state by 2041. His administration’s policies focus on education, family planning, and women’s empowerment to achieve this goal. Sarma emphasized that these measures are part of a broader strategy to ensure balanced population growth and sustainable development for all communities in Assam, promoting harmony and inclusive progress across the state.
Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday claimed that the Muslim population in his state is growing around 30 percent every 10 years, and they will become the majority by 2041.
“By 2041, Assam will become a Muslim-majority state. The chief minister noted that the population of the Hindu community is rising by around 16 percent every 10 years. Sarma emphasized the steps his government has taken to reduce population growth among the Muslim community.
According to Sarma, these measures focus on education, family planning, and women’s empowerment to address the demographic changes projected to make Assam a Muslim-majority state by 2041. His administration’s policies are aimed at promoting balanced population growth and sustainable development for all communities in Assam.
The chief minister also called out the opposition Congress party, urging them to play a more active role in population control.
Sarma’s comments have sparked significant debate and controversy. Critics argue that such statements could further polarize communities and lead to communal tensions. They also question the accuracy of the data and projections cited by the chief minister. However, Sarma insists that his remarks are based on thorough statistical analysis and demographic trends.
The topic of demographic change is a sensitive one in Assam, a state that has seen significant migration and population shifts over the years. The state’s history of ethnic and communal strife adds to the complexity of managing demographic changes. Sarma’s administration believes that addressing population growth is crucial for the state’s future stability and development.
The measures being implemented include increasing access to contraception and reproductive health services, particularly in Muslim-majority areas. The government is also working to enhance the educational infrastructure, especially for girls, to ensure they have better opportunities and are more likely to delay marriage and childbirth.
Women’s empowerment is a central pillar of the government’s strategy. Sarma highlighted various programs aimed at improving women’s literacy rates, providing vocational training, and promoting gender equality. “When women are educated and empowered, they are more likely to make informed decisions about their reproductive health and family size,” he said.
Economic development is another critical aspect of the government’s plan. By improving job opportunities and economic conditions, the administration hopes to reduce the economic incentives for larger families. Sarma pointed out that poverty and lack of economic opportunities are significant drivers of high birth rates in many communities.
The chief minister also addressed the role of religious and community leaders in promoting population control measures. He called for greater cooperation from these leaders in spreading awareness about family planning and supporting the government’s initiatives.
Despite the government’s efforts, there are challenges to implementing these measures effectively. Cultural and social norms, resistance from certain sections of the community, and logistical issues in reaching remote areas are some of the obstacles that need to be overcome. Sarma acknowledged these challenges but expressed confidence that with sustained effort and community cooperation, progress could be made.
In addition to government initiatives, Sarma stressed the importance of non-governmental organizations and civil society in supporting population control efforts. He called for a multi-stakeholder approach that includes NGOs, community groups, and international organizations working together towards common goals.
As Assam faces these demographic challenges, the state’s future depends on the successful implementation of these population control measures. The administration’s approach, focusing on education, women’s empowerment, economic development, and community cooperation, aims to create a balanced and sustainable path forward.
The chief minister concluded his press conference by reiterating his commitment to addressing the issue responsibly and inclusively. “We are not against any community,” Sarma said. “Our goal is to ensure the well-being and prosperity of all the people of Assam, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.
However, the road ahead is fraught with difficulties. Sarma’s statements have not only sparked debate but also underscored the importance of sensitive handling of demographic issues. The success of these initiatives will largely depend on how well they are received by the communities involved and the extent to which they can be effectively implemented.
As Assam navigates these complex demographic changes, the emphasis on inclusive development and community engagement will be crucial. The next few years will be pivotal in determining whether the state can achieve its goals and maintain harmony among its diverse population. The administration’s strategies, while ambitious, offer a blueprint for addressing population growth in a way that promotes sustainability and equity.