Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stressed the importance of an inclusive interpretation of the term "Assamese," acknowledging the evolving demographics of the region and advocating for a widespread movement aimed at safeguarding the community's identity.
During an event where rehabilitation grants were disbursed to surrendered ULFA cadres as part of the ULFA Peace Accord, Sarma highlighted the dynamic nature of the Assamese identity, emphasizing the necessity of incorporating groups such as Hindi speakers and the tea tribes, who have resided in Assam for generations, into the definition of "Assamese."
Sarma attributed the changing demographics of Assam not to any specific policy of the central government but rather to infiltration from Bangladesh, which, he claimed, has significantly altered the state's population composition. He projected that according to forthcoming census data, Assamese individuals would constitute only around 40 percent of the total population.
Despite the dwindling numbers of Assamese people, Sarma expressed optimism about the preservation of their cultural identity through collective efforts, stressing the significance of a mass movement aimed at instilling confidence among the populace that despite numerical challenges, the Assamese identity can endure through a focus on quality.
Commending the leadership and former members of the ULFA for their decision to reintegrate into mainstream society, Sarma encouraged them to persuade remaining insurgents to follow suit, extending an invitation to ULFA (I) chief Paresh Barua to spend time in Assam, suggesting that such an experience would dissuade him from returning to Myanmar or China.
Sarma underscored the importance of rational decision-making over emotional reactions in advancing the state's developmental agenda, emphasizing the necessity for pragmatic approaches to address contemporary challenges effectively.
