My first priority is Jati, Mati, Bheti: Himanta Biswa Sarma

Guwahati, January 6, 2019:

NEDA Chief and Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma held a press meet today. He slammed critics of the Bill and added that the details regarding provisions of the Bill have been distorted because of Congress efforts to derail the Bill.

Stating that the BJP only wants to keep the Hindu Bangladeshi immigrants as opposed to the Congress’ stated intention to grant citizenship status of both Hindus and Muslims from Bangladesh, Biswa Sarma said: “We are not apologetic because we are trying to save Assam from the Jinnah-philosophy.”

He also added that the NRC will detect a lot of ‘Jinnahs’ and added that the original intention of the NRC was to turn away ‘Jinnahs’, referring to illegal Bangladeshis.

He supported the rights of groups to protest the Bill, but added that he does not support the ‘bandh’ that has been called in protest against the Bill. “My first priority is jati, mati, and bheti”, said Sarma. He also added that his priority is to preserve the integrity and added that the demographic invasion is the biggest threat faced by the people of Assam, as stated by the Supreme Court.

Speaking about the granting of ‘ST’ status to six communities of Assam, he said: “The Prime Minister has said he promised ST status during election time. He is studying the situation and we expect to hear from him in 7-10 days.” He also expressed confidence that a positive resolution would be reached regarding the issue.