A panel, divided into seven sub-committees, has recommended that a notification be passed to identify “Assamese Muslims” as a distinct group in the state. The panel, formed by the BJP-led government in Assam, had met with representatives of the Assamese Muslim community from various fields to discuss the community’s socio-economic issues. After months of discussion, the panel submitted the report on Thursday.
The panel also suggested issuing identity cards or certifications as well as conducting a census to “identify and document” the Assamese Muslim community.
Accepting the report on Thursday, Assam chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that all the recommendations were “implementable”, but in a phase wise manner.
Referring to the definition of Assamese Muslims in the report Sarma said, “We have accepted the definition….now the target group will be clearer, and what work needs to be done for them.”
He declared that the next stage will include “legislative mechanisms, administrative decisions and financial support” to these groups.
The report also suggested more political representation to the group. Calling for a provision similar to the Article 333 of the Constitution to provide “representation of Assamese Muslims in Parliament and Assam Legislative Assembly,” a release by the government stated that once the Legislative Council is formed, specific number of seats may be reserved for Assamese Muslim community in this Council.
Suggestions on matters related to education, political representation, health, skill development and women empowerment were also included in the report.
