Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday stated that the Muslim community in the state voluntarily decided not to sacrifice cows during the Eid-Al Adha festival. He emphasized that this decision was made without any external pressure or government directive, reflecting a spirit of harmony and mutual respect.
Government's Stance on Illegal Settlers
Sarma, however, reiterated that the state government's drive to clear government land from illegal settlers and to push back illegal Bangladeshi migrants would continue unabated. He made these remarks while addressing the media in Guwahati, underscoring the administration's commitment to enforcing laws regarding land ownership and immigration.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the voluntary decision by the Muslim community aligns with the broader cultural ethos of Assam, where cow protection is revered. He praised the community for their sensitivity towards local sentiments, which he said strengthens social cohesion.
Continued Enforcement Actions
Despite the positive development regarding cow sacrifice, Sarma made it clear that the government would not relent in its efforts to identify and deport illegal immigrants. He stated that over the past few years, the state has intensified operations to evict encroachers from government lands and to verify citizenship documents.
The Assam government has been proactive in implementing the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and has set up tribunals to handle cases of suspected illegal migrants. Sarma added that the pushback policy would be strictly enforced to protect the state's demographic balance and resources.
This announcement comes amidst ongoing debates over cow slaughter and immigration in Assam, which have been sensitive issues in the region. The Chief Minister's remarks are seen as an attempt to balance religious freedom with legal and cultural considerations.
