Assam CM's Call for National Responsibility to Stop Infiltration

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the collective responsibility to halt infiltration, criticizing the Union government and political leaders. He addressed the rising Muslim population in Assam and the impact on the state's demographics. Sarma also questioned Rahul Gandhi's stance on caste surveys, urging unity against infiltration.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday emphasized that stopping infiltration is a collective responsibility, not just that of the Union government.

Sarma questioned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on how to conduct a caste survey without disclosing one's own caste during an interaction with reporters.

Speaking as BJP's Jharkhand election co-incharge, Sarma pointed out that the Santhal Pargana region in Jharkhand has been severely affected by infiltration, noting a 50-60 percent increase in infiltrator population in various constituencies over the last 20 years. He warned that Assam faces a similar situation, citing a rise in the Muslim population from 12 percent in 1952 to 40-42 percent today due to infiltration.

He stressed that continual infiltration could force the Chief Minister to yield to infiltrators, asserting that it is not merely a political issue but a collective responsibility to safeguard the state. Sarma urged the state government to build consensus and take definitive action against infiltrators.

Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren has repeatedly accused the Centre of failing to curb infiltration, asserting it is the Union government's responsibility. He added that while politics will persist, the duty to save the state falls on everyone's shoulders.

Criticizing Rahul Gandhi, Sarma highlighted his advocacy for a caste survey while avoiding disclosing his own caste. He questioned the feasibility of a nationwide caste survey without such disclosures, drawing attention to its implementation in Bihar.