Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed grave concerns over demographic and communal changes in the State, drawing a controversial comparison with Bangladesh. Speaking at the Tangra Satra, the CM highlighted what he perceives as troubling demographic trends in Assam’s districts, likening them to the situation faced by Hindus in Bangladesh.
Himanta Sarma pointed out that Hindus, who once made up 35 per cent of Bangladesh’s population, have dwindled to just 8 per cent due to systemic persecution and attacks on religious sites. He noted similar trends in Assam, with Hindu populations in Dhubri at 12 per cent, Barpeta at 30 per cent, and Morigaon at 35 per cent.
CM Himanta warned that these districts resemble “small Bangladesh” within Assam. He expressed concern that if current trends continue, the State could face a demographic shift similar to Bangladesh’s, especially in areas outside upper Assam.
Dr Himanta referred to historical data showing a decline in Hindu populations over the decades. In Assam, the Hindu population decreased from 76 per cent in 1951 to 61.47 per cent in 2011. In Bangladesh, it fell from 22 per cent in 1951 to 8.5 per cent in 2011. He mentioned that preliminary data from the 2021 census would provide further insights into these trends.
The Chief Minister suggested that similar demographic shifts could occur in West Bengal and Jharkhand. He expressed concerns about how these changes could impact regional demographics and community dynamics.
Himanta Sarma’s comments have sparked debate, reflecting ongoing concerns about demographic changes and their potential implications for communal relations in the region.
