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Assam: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently criticized the Congress and the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) party for allegedly exploiting the Muslim community solely for electoral gains. Sarma claimed that Muslims in Assam had historically voted for Congress or AIUDF out of fear, and their relationship with these parties was solely transactional, ending once the votes were cast.
Sarma emphasized that the BJP has taken on the responsibility of improving the lives of indigenous Muslims in the state. Additionally, the state government has initiated efforts to combat child marriages and reform madrassa education. The government is providing free services, including the Orunodoi (a direct benefit transfer scheme), health cards, and other facilities for non-indigenous Muslims.
He acknowledged that their efforts to assist non-indigenous Muslims might not result in votes, but the government was committed to supporting them. Sarma highlighted the disparity in perceptions, noting that if they worked in certain constituencies, they were expected to receive votes, while in others, it was not guaranteed. Nevertheless, he affirmed their commitment to the welfare of the non-indigenous Muslim population.