Assam Repatriates 1,679 As Political Tension Mounts Over Immigration

Guwahati: Assam repatriated 1,679 illegal Bangladeshi immigrants between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2026. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared these figures with the Legislative Assembly on July 13. He responded to a query from AIUDF MLA Badruddin Ajmal regarding the state's deportation procedures. Sarma noted that the state operates under federal citizenship directives. He emphasized that the government maintains legal safeguards to prevent human rights violations during the removal process.

Sarma stated, "The state government implements the provisions of law as well as directions issued by the Centre pertaining to citizenship matters. While implementing such laws and directions, enough safeguards are put in place so that the human rights of an individual are not violated." Authorities use varied methods, including deportation and expulsion. No individual facing a pending appeal in the Gauhati High Court or the Supreme Court is removed.

Raijor Dal founder Akhil Gogoi challenged the state's tactics on July 13. He hailed a recent Supreme Court verdict that overturned 27 Gauhati High Court judgments supporting Foreigners Tribunal orders. Gogoi called the ruling a "big slap" on the face of the chief minister. He accused the administration of pressuring tribunals to label individuals as foreigners. Gogoi also claimed the government illegally allows Superintendents of Police and Deputy Commissioners to detain "doubtful citizens" without court intervention.

On July 14, Gogoi intensified his attack. He argued the current pushback strategy lacks legal standing. He demanded the Indian government initiate formal bilateral talks with Bangladesh instead of political grandstanding. Beyond immigration, Gogoi addressed broken campaign promises. He reminded Prime Minister Narendra Modi of a 2016 pledge to grant Scheduled Tribe status to the Tai Ahom, Chutia, Moran, Matak, Koch-Rajbongshi, and Tea Tribes. He noted that an established 2019 bill could settle the issue without further committee delays.

Gogoi closed by addressing national concerns. He demanded the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following exam paper leaks. He also urged the federal government to intervene in the hunger strike of activist Sonam Wangchuk to avoid nationwide unrest.