Guwahati: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has strongly criticised Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his recent remarks on the term “Miya”, accusing him of insulting and belittling the Muslim community in Assam. The controversy has triggered sharp political reactions in Guwahati, where the issue of identity and language remains deeply sensitive.
Owaisi’s comments came in response to a statement made by the Chief Minister on January 29, where Sarma said that people who came from Bangladesh refer to themselves as “Miya” and that he did not coin the term himself.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has attacked Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma over his remarks on the term “Miya,” calling them insulting to the Muslim community. The comments, now widely discussed in Guwahati, have reignited debate over identity, language, and political rhetoric in Assam
Owaisi Questions CM’s Language
Addressing a public gathering, Owaisi questioned how a sitting Chief Minister could make such remarks. Referring to Sarma’s statement, he said a Chief Minister should not use examples that appear to demean a particular community.
He cited an analogy allegedly used by the CM, saying, “Can any Chief Minister say something like this, that if an auto-rickshaw driver is a ‘Miya’ and the fare is five rupees, you should pay only four? How small-minded is this?”
Context of the ‘Miya’ Term in Assam
Owaisi stated that in Assam, the term “Miya” is commonly used to describe Muslims whose ancestors were brought during British rule to cultivate land. He said these communities are Indian citizens, many of whom speak Bengali, and argued that using the term in a derogatory manner contributes to social alienation.
In Guwahati, where communities from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds coexist, the remarks have reopened discussions around identity, migration, and political messaging.
Broader Attack on BJP Leadership
Expanding his criticism beyond Assam, Owaisi also took aim at the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging a disconnect between the government’s development claims and its ground-level conduct.
He remarked that while leaders speak about making India a global economic power, such rhetoric contrasts sharply with comments that, in his view, show disrespect toward ordinary citizens.
CM Sarma’s Earlier Statement
The controversy traces back to Sarma’s remarks on January 29, when the Chief Minister said that people who came from Bangladesh refer to themselves as “Miya.” He added that he did not assign the label but that it was self-referential.
The Chief Minister has not issued a fresh response to Owaisi’s criticism as of the time of reporting.
Political Impact in Guwahati
Guwahati, as Assam’s political and media hub, has emerged as the focal point of debate following the exchange. Political observers note that such statements could influence public discourse ahead of elections, particularly in urban constituencies where identity-related issues often shape political narratives.
Analysts also caution that heightened rhetoric may deepen polarisation if not addressed carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered Owaisi’s criticism of Himanta Biswa Sarma?
Owaisi reacted to the Assam Chief Minister’s remarks on the term “Miya,” which he said were insulting and belittling to the Muslim community.
Has the Assam Chief Minister responded to Owaisi’s remarks?
As of now, no fresh response from Himanta Biswa Sarma addressing Owaisi’s criticism has been issued.
