GUWAHATI: Assam Health Minister Ashok Singhal’s controversial remarks against Bengali-speaking Muslims, commonly referred to as Miyas, have ignited a storm in the state Assembly, with opposition parties accusing him of spreading communal hatred.
The controversy erupted after Singhal, in a speech at Dhekiajuli, suggested barring Miyas from setting up shops during Hindu festivals. In a viral video, the BJP MLA was heard saying, “Don’t give it (shops) to Miyas (during the Bhaona event). Give it to our youths. How can Miyas enter our festival? Our boys do not enter on Eid. I am not with them. If you mingle with them, I am not with you.”
His comments triggered a massive backlash in the Assembly on March 4, with AIUDF MLA Rafiqul Islam demanding a breach of privilege motion against him. Islam accused Singhal of attempting to exclude Miyas from government welfare schemes and called for his immediate dismissal. The heated debate led to a 20-minute adjournment of the session.
The opposition slammed Singhal’s remarks as an attempt to deepen communal divisions in Assam, where Bengali-speaking Muslims have long faced discrimination. Critics argue that such rhetoric undermines social harmony and distracts from pressing governance issues.
With rising communal tensions in the state, opposition leaders continue to demand action against Singhal, insisting that his comments violate constitutional values of equality and religious freedom.
