GS-2Editorials18 August 2026thehindu.com

The ‘proud Assamese’ from other States

The article discusses Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's appeal to non-native residents to identify as 'Assamese' in the ongoing Census exercise. This appeal aims to counter the declining share of Assamese speakers and address the state's changing ethno-religious demographics. The article delves into historical migration patterns, the assimilation of Bengali-origin Muslims (Na-Axomiyas), and the political motivations behind such demographic appeals, particularly concerning the protection of 'indigenous Assamese' and electoral calculus.

The article discusses Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's appeal to non-native residents to identify as 'Assamese' in the ongoing Census exercise. This appeal aims to counter the declining share of Assamese speakers and address the state's changing ethno-religious demographics. The article delves into historical migration patterns, the assimilation of Bengali-origin Muslims (Na-Axomiyas), and the political motivations behind such demographic appeals, particularly concerning the protection of 'indigenous Assamese' and electoral calculus.

Exam linkage

GS Paper I: Indian Society (Demography, Migration, Regionalism, Identity); GS Paper II: Indian Polity (Constitutional & Statutory Bodies - Census, Governance issues, Welfare policies, Federalism implications)

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