At the Independence Day function in Guwahati on Friday, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma raised the national flag and delivered an impassioned warning that the state’s indigenous identity is facing its greatest-ever threat from illegal infiltration. Speaking to a large gathering, Sarma urged every indigenous Assamese to stand together to protect their land, culture, and way of life.
“This is not just a political issue, it is a battle for our very existence,” he said. “If we remain silent, within the next decade we will lose our identity, our land, and everything that makes us Assamese. Even the sacred Kamakhya temple hills could be encroached upon if we do not act now.”
The Chief Minister blamed successive governments over the past 78 years for ignoring infiltration, allowing demographic changes to take root in many districts. “We have already compromised in many districts. As a proud Assamese, I am not ready to compromise anymore,” he said, adding that the state was facing various forms of “jihad” — from love to land — which he claimed were aimed at weakening indigenous control.
He called on citizens to take personal responsibility in safeguarding Assam’s future, beginning with one clear appeal: “Do not sell even a small portion of land to unknown buyers.” He also said the government is working to grant land rights to landless indigenous families to strengthen their legal and economic stake in the state.
Sarma also criticised certain Assamese nationalist leaders, accusing them of “surrendering to infiltrators” and weakening the collective fight. “This is the biggest challenge Assam has ever faced. Our fight today will inspire the next generation to keep our identity alive,” he said, his voice mixing urgency with determination.
For many in Assam, the Chief Minister’s message reflected not just a policy concern but a deeply personal struggle linked to preserving their language, culture, and ancestral heritage.
This story was originally published in theobserverpost.com.