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Key Points

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has welcomed the Centre's decision to include caste data in the 2027 national census. The move aims to recognize the distinct socio-cultural identities of indigenous Muslim communities in Assam's Brahmaputra and Barak Valleys. This policy shift marks a significant step towards acknowledging the unique ethnic, linguistic, and cultural characteristics of these groups. The caste census represents a long-awaited opportunity for communities like Goria, Moria, and Deshi Muslims to assert their independent identities.

Key Points: Himanta Sarma Backs Caste Census for Assam's Indigenous Muslims

  • Caste census to document unique identities of Assam's Muslim communities
  • Centre confirms 2027 nationwide caste enumeration
  • Recognizing indigenous groups beyond religious classifications
2 min read

Caste Census to empower Assam's indigenous Muslims: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

Assam CM supports nationwide caste enumeration, highlighting unique identities of indigenous Muslim communities in Brahmaputra and Barak Valleys

"The proposed caste-based census will fulfil the decades-old aspiration of indigenous Muslims for formal recognition - Himanta Biswa Sarma"

Guwahati, June 5

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday welcomed the Centre's decision to include caste enumeration in the 2027 national census, calling it a long-overdue step that will significantly benefit the state's indigenous Muslim communities.

Speaking on the sidelines of a World Environment Day event, Sarma said the move would help these communities assert their distinct socio-cultural identities, which have often been overlooked within broader religious or migratory classifications. "The proposed caste-based census will fulfil the decades-old aspiration of indigenous Muslims for formal recognition of their independent identity," he said.

The Centre on Wednesday confirmed that the 16th nationwide census will incorporate caste data, following an April 30 decision by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA). This marks a shift in national policy, as caste data has not been collected since the British-era censuses.

In Assam, communities such as the Goria, Moria, Deshi, Syed, and Jolha (Julha) Muslims of the Brahmaputra Valley, along with the Kiren and Maimal Muslims of the Barak Valley, have been vocal in demanding recognition as indigenous groups. While united by religion, they emphasise their unique ethnic, linguistic, and cultural identities, which distinguish them from migrant-origin Muslim populations.

Last month, the Assam government initiated preparatory measures for a state-level caste census focused on documenting these groups. According to Sarma, their languages, customs, and historical roots form an integral part of Assam's civilizational heritage.

The demand for a nationwide caste census has gained political traction, with the Congress and other opposition parties making it a key electoral issue. Several states, including Bihar, Karnataka, and Telangana, have already undertaken their own caste surveys.

Meanwhile, Sarma also attacked Rahul Gandhi for the latter's 'Surrender Modi' jibe.

In a post on X, the CM said, "Rahul Gandhi has the audacity to mock the Hon'ble Prime Minister @narendramodi as 'Surrender Modi' despite the massive success of #OperationSindoor. Let's jog his memory as to which party and family has surrendered India's interest and territory, and backstabbed the people with their treachery."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Finally some recognition for Assam's indigenous communities! 👏 This census will help preserve their unique culture and languages. As an Assamese, I know how important this is - our Goria and Moria brothers have contributed so much to our state's heritage.
R
Rahul M.
While I support documenting indigenous identities, I worry this might become another political tool. We've seen how caste data gets misused during elections. Hope the implementation is transparent and benefits reach the actual communities.
S
Sunita T.
Interesting move. The indigenous Muslims of Assam have a completely different history than other groups. Their languages like Deshi and traditions deserve protection. But CM Sarma should focus more on development than political mudslinging in the same breath.
A
Arjun P.
Good initiative but implementation is key. We don't want another NRC-like chaos in Assam. The government must ensure proper documentation without harassment of genuine citizens. Also, why bring Rahul Gandhi into this? Stay focused on the census issue!
M
Meena S.
As someone from Barak Valley, I welcome this! Our Kiren Muslim community has distinct traditions that even many Indians don't know about. This census can help in preserving our folk songs and weaving techniques. More power to cultural diversity! 🇮🇳
V
Vikram D.
The timing seems political with elections coming up. While documenting indigenous groups is important, I hope this doesn't become another divisive tool. India needs unity more than ever with China and Pakistan at our borders.

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