Guwahati, June 22 (IANS) AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal on Monday launched a sharp attack on Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, alleging that the Muslim community in the state has been living in fear because of the BJP leader’s politics and public statements.

Ajmal became a legislator for the second time in the recently concluded state Assembly polls by winning the Binnakandi Assembly seat.

Speaking to reporters here, Ajmal accused CM Sarma of making divisive remarks and claimed that the Chief Minister tops the list when it comes to hate speeches.

“Himanta Biswa Sarma is number one when it comes to making hate comments. Because of his politics and statements, Muslims in Assam are living in fear,” Ajmal alleged.

The AIUDF leader, however, asserted that members of the Muslim community remain committed to Assam’s social harmony and development.

Referring to educational initiatives run by his charitable organisation, Ajmal said institutions under the Ajmal Foundation cater to students from all communities.

“In Ajmal Foundation institutions, not only Muslim students but Hindu boys and girls also study. We have always worked for education and social development without discrimination,” he said.

Ajmal also commented on the upcoming Census exercise, urging Muslims in Assam to identify Assamese as their mother tongue.

According to him, such a move would further strengthen the bond between the Muslim community and Assamese society.

“This time, during the Census, Muslims should write Assamese as their language. It will reflect the reality of our integration with Assamese culture and society,” he said.

Turning to state politics, the AIUDF chief weighed in on the leadership issue within the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC).

He suggested that senior Congress leader and Dhubri Lok Sabha MP Rakibul Hussain should be made the state Congress president, replacing incumbent chief Gaurav Gogoi.

Ajmal argued that Hussain’s long political experience and grassroots connect could strengthen the Congress organisation in Assam ahead of future electoral battles.

With a previous record of creating major controversies, Badruddin Ajmal’s comments are expected to trigger fresh political reactions from both the BJP and the Congress in the coming days.

–IANS

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