Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma claimed that the Muslim population in Assam could reach parity with the Hindu population by 2041, if current demographic trends continue.
Speaking at a press conference following a state cabinet meeting, Sarma cited data from the 2011 Census, which recorded the Muslim population at 34.22% and Hindus at 61.47% of Assam’s total 3.12 crore population. Of the Muslim population, only 3% were identified as indigenous Assamese Muslims, while the remaining 31% were described as migrants, the Chief Minister stated.
“If you project that trend through 2021, 2031 and 2041, you will come to an almost 50:50 position,” Sarma said, asserting that his remarks were based on statistical data and not personal opinion. “I am just stating what the census reports show,” he added.
The Chief Minister highlighted the rising number of Muslim-majority districts in the state. In 2001, Assam had six Muslim-majority districts, including Dhubri, Goalpara, Barpeta, Nagaon, Karimganj, and Hailakandi. By 2011, the number had risen to nine, with the addition of Morigaon, Bongaigaon, and Darrang.
Though the 2021 Census is yet to be released, Sarma claimed that the number has since increased to at least 11 Muslim-majority districts. The BJP has consistently flagged demographic changes in Assam as a matter of public concern and policy interest.
Sarma also addressed the issue of land encroachment, stating that nearly 29 lakh bighas (approximately 10 lakh acres) of government land are currently under illegal occupation.
“Eviction drives will continue… My lifespan will be over, but then also the entire encroached land will not be vacated,” he remarked, adding that large-scale encroachments have posed a serious challenge to land management and planning in the state.
Earlier this week, Sarma alleged that much of the encroached land was occupied by “illegal Bangladeshis and doubtful citizens.” He further claimed that his administration had faced “international pressure” to halt eviction operations following the controversial Gorukhuti eviction drive in Darrang district in 2021.
Despite criticism and opposition, the Chief Minister reiterated that his government remains committed to continuing land reclamation and addressing demographic imbalances in the state.
