Sun Feb 01 13:34:52 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Assam Chief Minister Defends “Miya” Remarks, Reigniting Immigration Debate

The Story:

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended his controversial remarks referring to the “Miya” community and their alleged involvement in rickshaw operations, stating his comments were based on legal grounds regarding illegal immigration from Bangladesh, not targeting a specific community. Speaking at the Women Entrepreneurship Fund Distribution Programme in Goalpara, Assam on February 1, 2026, Sarma clarified that his use of the term “Miya” was intended to refer to individuals who illegally entered India from Bangladesh. He asserted that existing laws prohibit illegal immigrants from working or earning a livelihood in Assam.

Sarma reiterated his government’s firm stance on illegal immigration, acknowledging the difficulties in deporting individuals but affirming his commitment to make life difficult for them until they leave. He also stated that the issue of undocumented migration was inherited from prior Congress governments.

Key Points:

  • February 1, 2026: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended his remarks regarding the “Miya” community and rickshaw operations.
  • Sarma stated his remarks are based on legal considerations concerning illegal immigration from Bangladesh.
  • He argued that illegal immigrants should not be allowed to work or earn a livelihood in Assam.
  • Sarma acknowledged deportation challenges but vowed to continue his hardline stance.
  • The Chief Minister distributed cheques of ₹10,000 each to 24,000 women entrepreneurs at the event.

Critical Analysis:

The historical context provides crucial insights. The article “Life And Death Fight For Assam’: Himanta Sarma Raises Pitch On \”Miya\” Row” from January 31, 2026, just days before this article, is very relevant as it shows that the “Miya” row was already a significant and escalating issue. This context demonstrates a pattern of the Chief Minister publicly addressing and defending his stance on the “Miya” community, suggesting a deliberate effort to maintain a specific narrative regarding immigration and identity within Assam.

Key Takeaways:

  • The issue of illegal immigration in Assam remains a contentious and politically charged issue.
  • Chief Minister Sarma’s hardline stance aims to protect the livelihoods of Indian citizens and lawful residents of Assam.
  • The “Miya” community is at the center of the debate, raising concerns about potential stigmatization of Bengali-speaking Muslims.
  • The Chief Minister is portraying the issue of illegal immigration as a legacy issue.

Impact Analysis:

The ongoing debate has several potential long-term implications:

  • Social Polarization: Continued focus on the “Miya” community risks exacerbating social divisions within Assam.
  • Political Ramifications: Sarma’s hardline stance is likely intended to consolidate his political base, but could also alienate certain segments of the population.
  • Legal Challenges: The government’s actions are likely to face legal challenges, particularly concerning the rights of marginalized communities.
  • Economic Impact: Restrictions on employment for undocumented immigrants could have unintended consequences on Assam’s economy.
  • National Discourse: Assam’s immigration debate influences broader national conversations on citizenship and migration policies.

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