Assamese Muslims recognised as a distinct indigenous community

The move distinguishes them from the Bengali-speaking Muslims who migrated from present-day Bangladesh

GUWAHATI:

About 40 lakh Assamese-speaking Muslims have been recognised as indigenous Assamese Muslims and a sub-group of the Assamese community in Assam.

The decision to grant them the recognition was taken by the State Cabinet on Tuesday evening. The move by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government in Assam officially distinguishes the Assamese Muslims from the Bengali-speaking Muslims who have migrated from present-day Bangladesh since the late 1800s.

The Cabinet note, however, said: “This move will ensure their development in health, cultural identity, education, financial inclusion, skill development and women empowerment.”

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Assam has the highest proportion of Muslims after Lakshadweep, and Jammu and Kashmir. Bengali-speaking or Bengal-origin Muslims comprise the bulk of more than 34% (2011 Census) Muslims in the State.

Briefing journalists after the Cabinet meeting, Health Minister Keshab Mahanta said the Assamese-speaking Muslims were loosely tagged as “Khilonjia Musalman” (indigenous Muslims) but lacked official recognition until now. The community has been seeking the recognition for years as they consider their ethnic identity greater than their religious identity.