Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Assures Secured Border, Dismisses Fears of Illegal Entry Amid Bangladesh Crisis
On Thursday, August 8, 2024, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed concerns about religious minorities in Bangladesh facing attacks amid ongoing political unrest. He assured that Assam’s 262-km border with Bangladesh remains secure, with no reported illegal crossings.
Speaking to journalists in Guwahati, Sarma emphasized that the central government has not instructed Assam to allow any minority individuals from Bangladesh to cross into India. Instead, the Centre has directed the state to keep the border completely sealed.
Sarma expressed confidence that the Indian government would apply political and diplomatic pressure on Bangladesh’s new administration to safeguard the rights and properties of minorities.
“The solution lies not in allowing a small number of people to enter India but in ensuring their safety within Bangladesh. The United Nations can play a role, and I’m certain the Government of India will address the issue diplomatically,” Sarma stated.
He cautioned against excessive discussions on Bangladesh’s internal situation, warning that it could provoke further persecution of Hindus in the neighboring country.
This statement follows a plea from the North East Students’ Organisation, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to prevent illegal entry into the northeastern states. Assam, along with Meghalaya (443 km), Mizoram (318 km), and Tripura (856 km), shares a 4,096-km-long border with Bangladesh.
“We request immediate action to ensure that no illegal person enters the northeastern states from Bangladesh, and we urge that no Bangladeshi should be granted asylum or rehabilitated in the region,” the organization stated.