Guwahati, Jan 1: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on January 1, 2026, firmly rejected allegations that his government is anti-Muslim, asserting that his primary responsibility is to govern Assam in line with his administration’s ideological commitments rather than respond to narratives shaped outside the state. He said public judgment should be based on his government’s actions on the ground, not on perceptions created elsewhere.
Responding to a question from India Today NE, Sarma addressed the national discourse that portrays him as being opposed to Muslims, clarifying that his stance is directed against what he described as illegal Bangladeshi migrants, often referred to as “Miyas,” and not against any religious community. He said he did not see it as his duty to explain or defend this distinction to critics beyond Assam. According to him, his focus remains on serving the state and the country while being open about the ideological positions his government holds.
The Chief Minister said the performance of his administration should be evaluated by observing its impact on people’s lives in Assam, particularly the poor and marginalised. He pointed out that several policy decisions taken by his government have directly benefited Muslim women, arguing that these outcomes contradict claims of discrimination.
Citing the state’s decision to ban polygamy, Sarma said the move received strong support from within the Muslim community itself. He remarked that Muslim women, in particular, welcomed the step, viewing it as a measure that strengthened their rights and social security.
Reiterating his position, Sarma said altering the opinions of those who label his government as anti-Muslim is not part of his role as Chief Minister. He maintained that anyone seeking clarity should look at the situation in Assam firsthand, adding that governance, development and adherence to the government’s ideological framework remain his priorities.
