Patna, Aug 03: The dismissal of all petitions against the caste-based survey by the Patna High Court has opened the doors for the proposed socio-economic survey of indigenous Muslims in Assam. For years, the indigenous Muslims in the state have faced deprivation of essential facilities and opportunities.
However, a delegation from the Sadou Asom Goria-Moria Deshi Jatiya Parishad met with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, reminding him of his commitment to conduct a survey to address their plight. This article explores the significance of the Patna HC verdict and the demands raised by the delegation for the upliftment and development of the indigenous Muslim communities in Assam.
The Patna High Court‘s decision to dismiss all petitions against the caste-based survey conducted by the Bihar Government has set a precedent for similar surveys in other states, including Assam. This ruling clarifies the jurisdiction for conducting such surveys, and as a result, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed his willingness to move forward with the socio-economic study of indigenous Muslims in Assam.
During their meeting with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Sadou Asom Goria-Moria Deshi Jatiya Parishad delegation put forward several demands aimed at improving the conditions and status of the indigenous Muslim communities in the state:
- Identification and OBC Status: The delegation urged the government to conduct a separate survey to identify ethnic groups like Goria, Moria, and Deshi and grant them Other Backward Class (OBC) status based on their qualifications through the issuance of ethnic certificates. This recognition will help protect their rights and ensure socio-economic benefits.
- Formation of a Separate Corporation: The delegation emphasized the need for a dedicated corporation with full authority to drive the rapid development of the Goria, Moria, and Deshi communities. This corporation should operate independently and be detached from the Minority Department.
- Seat Reservations in Autonomous Councils: The delegation demanded seat reservations in all autonomous councils based on the population of Goria, Moria, and Deshi community members. This measure aims to ensure their representation and active participation in decision-making processes.
- Desi Development Council: A specific demand was raised for the immediate formation of a Desi Development Council to address the unique needs and challenges faced by the indigenous Muslim communities in Assam.
- Protected Community Status: The delegation urged the government to declare the indigenous Muslims of the state as a protected community in all tribal enclaves, such as autonomous regions, tribal belts, and blocks. This step will provide them with enhanced legal safeguards and recognition.
- Release of Indigenous Muslims from Foreigners Tribunals: The delegation highlighted the unfortunate cases of indigenous Muslims facing issues in Foreigners Tribunals. They called for the unconditional release of these individuals to ensure justice and fair treatment.
- Preservation of Histories and Resources: The Parishad demanded proper preservation of the histories, historic resources, and memories of prominent personalities from the indigenous Muslim communities in the state. This step is essential to retain their cultural heritage and identity.
- Modernization of Brass Industry: The Moria community, part of the MOBC category in Assam, engages in the brass industry. However, this industry is declining. The delegation requested financial assistance for the modernization of this sector to revive its economic prospects.
- Eviction of Encroachers: The delegation demanded the removal of encroachers from forest land, government land, wetlands, extra land, and Wakf Board’s property to safeguard the resources and lands belonging to the indigenous Muslim communities.
- Representation in Delimitation of Constituencies: The delegation stressed the importance of ensuring fair representation of the indigenous Muslims of the state in the delimitation of constituencies to empower their political voice.
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The Patna High Court verdict has given a much-needed push for the socio-economic survey of indigenous Muslims in Assam. The demands raised by the Sadou Asom Goria-Moria Deshi Jatiya Parishad delegation reflect the pressing issues faced by these communities and highlight the urgent need for their upliftment and development.
As the Assam Government considers these demands, it is crucial to prioritize the welfare and inclusion of indigenous Muslims to foster a more equitable and prosperous society in the state. The implementation of these measures will not only address their historical marginalization but also provide them with opportunities for growth and socio-economic progress.
