Assam: ‘Miya’ Muslims Face Eviction in Eastern Regions

Quick Summary

• The Assam government has resumed eviction drives against Bengali Muslims, referred to as “Miyas,” perceived to be illegal immigrants in eastern Assam.
• Over 55,000 people have been evicted since 2016; an estimated 6,000 evictions occurred this year.
• Eviction drives target forest lands,grazing grounds,and revenue lands under court mandates.
• Local organisations like Bir Lachit Sena and All Tai Ahom Students’ Union are conducting house-to-house searches and intercepting individuals for suspected nationality issues without official permission from authorities.
• Indigenous Assamese Muslims have expressed unease about communal tension and questioned the legitimacy of these document checks by unapproved groups.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The resumption of eviction drives targeting Bengali-speaking Muslims raises questions about enforcement procedures and community dynamics. While clearing encroached government land is legally mandated, the involvement of local organisations in identity verification appears unauthorized. This could set a concerning precedent for vigilante actions that may strain social harmony in Assam.

The displacement impacts livelihoods significantly-particularly among daily wage earners relocating far from their districts. potential long-term effects may include demographic shifts or challenges accessing civic resources for displaced communities. Authorities need to clearly define boundaries between lawful management-led procedures versus civilian interventions to prevent needless harassment or communal tensions.

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