Guwahati, Jan 7: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on January 6 expressed serious concern over the prevailing situation in neighbouring Bangladesh, warning that recent developments across the border could have repercussions in Assam in the days ahead. He also flagged the long-standing presence of extremist elements in the state, cautioning that some may still be operating covertly.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an official programme, Sarma said the evolving situation in Bangladesh, particularly incidents of violence against the Hindu community, was deeply troubling. He noted that reports of increasing attacks and intimidation had emerged in recent weeks, creating an atmosphere of fear amid political changes in the neighbouring country. According to him, Assam cannot remain unaffected by such developments and must stay alert.
The chief minister emphasised the need for constant vigilance and close monitoring of the situation, stating that authorities must be prepared for any spillover impact. He also underscored the importance of standing in solidarity with the Hindu community in Bangladesh and providing them moral support during what he described as a difficult period. As per Bangladesh’s 2022 census, Hindus constitute nearly eight per cent of the country’s population, numbering over 13 million.
Turning to internal security concerns, Sarma said intelligence and security agencies have repeatedly uncovered evidence of extremist activities in Assam over the past decade. He warned that while several networks have been dismantled, there is a possibility that some elements may still be lying low as sleeper cells, posing an ongoing challenge to the state’s security apparatus.
The chief minister observed that Assam’s security environment has historically remained sensitive due to regional and geopolitical factors and is likely to continue so unless there is broader stability in the surrounding region. He reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order and preventing any attempt to destabilise the state.
Sarma also recalled that in December last year, police had arrested 11 individuals in Assam and Tripura for their alleged links with Bangladesh-based fundamentalist groups, who were suspected of plotting activities aimed at destabilising the Northeast. The arrests, he said, underlined the need for sustained vigilance and proactive security measures.
