Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asserted on Sunday that Rahul Gandhi’s characterization of India as a Union of states indirectly supports secessionist elements. Sarma, speaking at an event in Delhi, questioned the historical perspective, suggesting that Gandhi’s reference to a Union of states implies a potential breakup of the country, akin to the sentiments expressed by groups like ULFA. Sarma, previously associated with the Congress, suggested that Gandhi might be influenced by external sources, possibly insinuating academic influences from JNU.
Rahul Gandhi had emphasized India as a Union of states in line with the Constitution during an event in London. Sarma, who controversially moved to close government-funded madrassas in Assam, argued for their discontinuation, asserting that the term “madrassa” should fade away for the educational progress of Indian Muslims. He proposed that religious teachings belong in homes, while schools should focus on subjects like science and mathematics.
Targeting AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, Sarma claimed that closing madrassas and implementing a Uniform Civil Code would benefit Muslims. He urged Indian Muslims to consider those advocating for these changes as friends and viewed Owaisi as an adversary. Sarma’s remarks came amidst the demolition of houses linked to an incident where a police station was torched, emphasizing the demographic challenges in districts with a minority Indian population.
Sarma delineated the Muslim population in Assam into three categories: “indigenous Muslims” whose culture aligns with the majority, those who converted generations ago but maintain traditional practices, and others who settled before or after 1971, identifying as Miya. He expressed his commitment to integrating Northeastern people into the mainstream, citing progress in overcoming past issues and the decline of militancy.
In conclusion, Sarma highlighted his vision for the Northeast’s integration with the rest of India, emphasizing the region’s changing dynamics and the need to address residual challenges for a more unified identity.