Assam CM: ‘Miya issues’ non-relevant in polls.
In a recent interview with PTI at Titabor in Jorhat, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the issue of ‘Miya’ community concerns in the context of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. He stated that subjects such as polygamy and child marriage within the ‘Miya’ community should not be considered as relevant issues in these elections. Sarma emphasized that his focus on raising these concerns was aimed at fostering social transformation within minority groups, rather than merely seeking their votes.
Regarding the BJP-led NDA’s prospects in the elections, Sarma predicted a competitive environment in three out of the 14 Lok Sabha seats in Assam. However, he expressed confidence that the saffron party would secure a clean sweep in the remaining 11 seats across the state.
Sarma emphasized his belief in prioritizing the actual development of minority communities over mere electoral gains. “I always say that getting votes is a different thing. Now, whether they give me votes or I ask for their votes — that is immaterial,” he stated in response to questions about his stance on seeking ‘Miya’ votes for the BJP.
His comments come amidst ongoing debates and discussions surrounding the ‘Miya’ community in Assam. Sarma’s approach appears to focus on addressing social issues and working towards the betterment of minority groups, rather than framing their concerns as political tools.
As the election season progresses, Sarma’s statements reflect a nuanced approach to community development and political engagement, emphasizing substantive change and progress for all segments of society.
However, in recent times, activists within the community have reclaimed and embraced this term as an act of defiance.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the importance of addressing social issues within the ‘Miya’ community for their prosperity. He questioned how the community could progress if practices like polygamy and child marriage persist. Sarma emphasized the need for equal opportunities, stating that without the inclusion of girl children in education and granting them equal property rights, the ‘Miya’ community would lag behind other segments of society.
His proposed approach towards minority communities is grounded in a positive platform. Sarma advocates for the cessation of Madrassa education, urging instead for the integration of students into general education. He also calls for an end to practices such as polygamy and child marriage, along with advocating for equal property rights for girls and females within the ‘Miya’ community.
Sarma’s stance reflects a commitment to fostering social progress and equality within minority communities, aiming for their holistic development and advancement alongside other segments of Assamese society.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reiterated his focus on addressing issues within minority areas of the state, emphasizing that these discussions are not about seeking votes but about promoting social change. He asserted his intention to visit various minority areas during the election campaign solely to discuss these important issues.
So, I am using electoral politics to achieve those goals,” he explained.
In October of the previous year, Sarma had stated that the BJP would not seek the votes of the ‘Miya’ people residing in Char areas (riverine vegetative islands) for the next decade, until they reform themselves by abandoning practices such as child marriage. However, he later softened his stance in February, indicating that he would not seek ‘Miya’ votes for the next two years, allowing ongoing welfare initiatives, including campaigns against child marriage and encroachments, to continue.
During a recent election campaign meeting in Morigaon, Sarma appeared more optimistic, expressing confidence that girls, women, and youths from the ‘Miya’ community would support the BJP in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls due to the party’s efforts to uplift these sections of the minority population.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted that the main opponents in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Assam are the Congress and the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), as the vote share of other opposition parties in the anti-BJP bloc is minimal. He expressed confidence in a clean sweep for the BJP-led alliance in 11 out of the 14 seats, with a competitive contest expected in the remaining three seats, although he did not specify which ones.
The BJP has nominated 11 candidates for the elections, with Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) selecting two and United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) announcing one candidate. Initially aiming for 13 winning seats, Sarma adjusted this projection based on the progress seen in the ongoing election campaign. He stated, “So, I will put 11 as a minimum and we can go up to 13 out of 14 seats — that is my assessment. I think we are on our target.”
Sarma emphasized that the election campaign revolves around the development work undertaken by the central government, particularly focusing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s contributions to Assam and the Northeast region. He highlighted Modi’s numerous visits to the state, his embrace of Assamese culture, and recent symbolic gestures like dedicating a statue of Lachit Borphukan.
Regarding his viral dance moves during the campaign, Sarma explained that Assam’s rich cultural heritage and the role of music in people’s lives inspired such expressions.