By Mumtaz Alam Falahi, TwoCircles.net,
Guwahati: The three words can sum up the socio-economic condition of Muslims in Assam. Socially, economically and educationally, their status is worse than the SCs and STs. About 25,000 local Muslims are IDPs (Internally Displaced People) and living in relief camps over two decades across the state whose 30% population is Muslim.
In an interview with TwoCircles.net, Hafiz Ahmed, Advisory Editor, Ganadhikar Assamese daily, gives informed assessment of the issues and problems confronting the minority community in Assam.
Major Problems
Insecurity, socio-economic and educational backwardness and displacement due to communal riots and soil erosion are the major problems facing the Muslims.
Their socio-economic condition is very pathetic, and this has been highlighted by the Sachar Committee.
After Independence in 1947, Muslims have been the worst affected by communal riots here. In 1950, communal riots forced 50 thousand Muslims to leave Assam for Pakistan. But after Liyaqat pact, 41 thousand were taken back. However, in 1963 in thename of deportation of Pakistanis, some 69 thousand Muslims were again deported without legal process.
On the other hand, during Assam movement more than 4000 Muslims were killed in many places including Bongaigaon, Kokrajhar and Nellie. In Nellie alone, 2000 Muslims were killed.
There are 27981 Muslim IDPs living in shelter camps. No government – either of Congress or AGP – has done anything for their rehabilitation.
Why Muslims vote for Congress?
Over decades, they have been forced to vote. They are threatened that if they did not vote for that party, they will be deported to or enlisted as D-voter. There are 1.57 lakh D-voters in Assam, mostly Muslims.
But now people are looking for change. In the last assembly poll, newly formed All India United Democratic Front got good votes. Their nine candidates won. The party also won a Lok Sabha seat in 2009 General Election.
Will split in Jamiat have any impact?
No, this will not have any impact. The split was done on the behest of chief minister. In the 1950s and 60s, people like Madanis had influence on people as they were literate and no knowledge about their rights. In the present time, people from outside will have little impact.