Chabua: In a stark warning regarding the changing demographics of Northeast India, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the state is on the brink of a major identity crisis. He cautioned that if the illegal immigrant population rises by just another 10%, Assam would "automatically" become part of Bangladesh.
The Demographic Challenge
Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister emphasized that he has been raising alarms about this issue for the last five years. He highlighted the current gravity of the situation:
* Current Status: Approximately 40% of Assam's population now consists of people of Bangladeshi origin.
* The Tipping Point: Sarma argued that an additional 10% increase would lead to a total loss of the state's original identity, effectively merging it with the neighboring country in terms of demographic control.
* National Context: He referenced recent surveys suggesting that in cities like Mumbai, nearly 70% of illegal immigrants have managed to obtain Indian voter IDs.
Countering Dhaka’s Rhetoric
The CM's comments come in response to provocative statements from new political leaders in Bangladesh. Following recent unrest and violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, some voices in Dhaka have suggested "annexing" India’s 'Seven Sister' states.
Specifically, Hasnat Abdullah, leader of the newly formed National Citizen Party in Bangladesh, recently suggested:
1. Annexation: That Dhaka should look to take control of Northeast Indian states.
2. Separatism: That Bangladesh should support separatist movements in India if New Delhi "destabilizes" Dhaka.
3. The 'Chicken’s Neck' Vulnerability: Abdullah pointed out that the Northeast is geographically vulnerable, relying solely on the narrow Siliguri Corridor (Chicken's Neck) for connectivity with mainland India.
"This is Why I Scream"
When asked about these provocative claims from across the border, Sarma responded, "This is exactly why I have been shouting for the last five years." He reiterated that the threat is not just external rhetoric but is being fueled by internal demographic shifts caused by illegal migration.