Guwahati: MLAs of the All India United Democratic Front staged a walkout from the Assam Assembly during the ongoing Budget session after the Speaker disallowed a discussion on alleged harassment of Bengali speaking Muslims referred to as ‘Miya’.
The party moved an adjournment motion under Rule 56 of the Assembly Rules. The rule allows debate on matters of urgent public importance, especially when remarks involve a person holding a constitutional post. The Speaker rejected the motion. AIUDF legislators then walked out and later protested outside the Assembly complex.
AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam accused Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of targeting the minority community through provocative remarks. He alleged that the Chief Minister made statements suggesting that ‘Miya’ Muslims should be paid only Rs 4 or Rs 5 as rickshaw fare. Islam described the remarks as objectionable and said they hurt the dignity of a community.
He also accused the BJP led government of pursuing polarisation. According to him, repeated references to ‘Miya’ Muslims and slogans such as ‘No Mercy’ create fear among minorities. He said the government disturbs social harmony and isolates one section of society.
The term ‘Miya’ is widely viewed as derogatory when used for Bengali speaking Muslims in Assam. AIUDF leaders said the Assembly should have allowed a discussion to address the issue formally. They insisted that constitutional forums must protect the rights and dignity of all citizens.
