Guwahati, Oct 10: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday claimed that the Muslim community is set to become the largest demographic group in the state, with their population projected to reach nearly 38 per cent in the upcoming national census.
Speaking at a public meeting in Dibrugarh, Sarma stated, “This time, when the census results are released, it will be seen that the percentage of the Miya community has increased to 38 per cent. Any statistical projection will show that they are poised to become the largest community in Assam and that is the truth.”
The Chief Minister further asserted that Assam’s indigenous population could remain secure “only if the Miya Muslims are kept under pressure.” He added that his government was considering introducing a new law in the state assembly aimed at protecting the rights and interests of the indigenous Assamese people.
Reiterating his stance on eviction drives and land protection, Sarma said, “Eviction notices have already been issued in Goalpara and Behali. We are not stopping any work. The pressure on illegal encroachments will continue.”
Sarma’s remarks have triggered sharp political reactions across the state. Opposition leaders accused him of attempting to polarise the electorate along communal lines ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Meanwhile, his supporters lauded the statement as a reflection of his firm commitment to safeguarding Assam’s “demographic and cultural integrity.”
The Miya community Bengali-origin Muslims who settled in Assam during British rule and after Partition has long been at the heart of the state’s identity and citizenship debates. They have often faced allegations of illegal immigration from Bangladesh, a sensitive issue that continues to influence Assam’s socio-political landscape.
According to the 2011 Census, Muslims made up 34.22 per cent of Assam’s population, with the highest concentrations in Dhubri, Goalpara, Barpeta, and Nagaon districts.