Guwahati, 18 May (HS): Former president of Asam Sahitya Sabha and sitting BJP MLA Parmananda Rajbongshi has strongly reacted to the controversial statement made by current Sabha president Dr Basanta Kumar Goswami regarding the Muslim community of Assam’s char-chaporis and the ongoing census process.

Rajbongshi alleged that the literary body has gradually come under the influence of “left-leaning intellectuals” and urged Dr Goswami to understand the present socio-political reality of Assam instead of making divisive comments. He said the organisation should work towards protecting Assamese identity while maintaining social harmony.

The controversy erupted after Dr Goswami reportedly stated that if Muslims residing in the char-chapori areas do not cooperate in the census process, Assamese people becoming “second-class citizens” in their own state would become “100% certain.” The remark triggered widespread debate across political and social circles in Assam.

Reacting sharply to the statement, Rajbongshi said public figures associated with respected cultural institutions must exercise restraint while speaking on sensitive issues linked to language, identity and community relations. He also stressed that organisations like the Asam Sahitya Sabha should remain above political ideology and continue functioning as a platform for inclusive Assamese society.

The remarks have meanwhile intensified discussions in the state over identity politics, demographic concerns and the role of literary and cultural organisations in contemporary Assam.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash