New Delhi, Aug 30: Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal has strongly criticised Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for his recent controversial remarks regarding the ‘Miya’ Muslim community. Sibal labelled Sarma’s comments as “pure communal venom,” asserting that such statements are unacceptable and must be challenged.
On Tuesday, during a discussion in the Assam Assembly, CM Sarma declared that he would “take sides” and would not allow ‘Miya’ Muslims to “take over” Assam. His remarks came in response to adjournment motions filed by opposition parties, which sought to discuss the deteriorating law and order situation in the state following the gangrape of a 14-year-old girl in Nagaon.
Reacting to Sarma’s statements, Sibal took to social media platform X on Wednesday, saying, “Himanta (Assam CM): ‘Will take sides. Will not let Miya Muslims take over all of Assam.’ My take: Pure communal venom. Actionable. Silence is not an answer.”, reported Business Standard.
The term ‘Miya’ has historically been used derogatorily to describe Bengali-speaking Muslims in Assam, often with the implication that they are Bangladeshi immigrants. However, in recent years, members of the community have begun to embrace the term as an act of defiance.
The exchange has sparked significant debate, with critics accusing Sarma of stoking communal tensions in the state. Many are now calling for accountability and action against what they see as divisive rhetoric.
