The Assam government has intensified its deportation drive, targeting the Muslim community under claims of “illegal infiltration.” On Friday, 39 Muslims from Karimganj district were forcibly pushed into Bangladesh, according to reports from Kashmir Media Service.

Assam’s Deportation Drive

Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed the action on social media, writing:

“Early Friday morning, 39 illegal intruders were sent back to Bangladesh from Sribhumi sector. We will trace every illegal intruder and send them back to their real country. Assam is not a place for you to flourish and increase your population.”

The government has also carried out bulldozing of homes and family evictions, sparking widespread fear among local Muslims.

Fear Among Assam’s Muslim Community

The Muslim community in Assam says these measures are religion-based targeting. Families, including women and children, have reportedly been expelled without proper hearings.

“This is not just a violation of rights but a clear attempt to target our community,” said Ayesha Rahman, a resident of Karimganj.

Human Rights Advocates Raise Alarm

Human rights lawyer Imran Siddiqui questioned the selective enforcement of laws, noting that Bengali-speaking Hindus who migrated before 1971 are not being subjected to the same treatment.

“This raises serious questions about religious bias in the government’s actions,” he stated.

Citizenship Law Raises Anxiety

The Assam government has recently revived the use of the 1950 law, giving District Collectors authority to demand proof of citizenship on suspicion alone. Those unable to prove their status risk deportation, increasing fear and insecurity within Muslim families.

“Ordinary families are terrified that any random suspicion could lead to expulsion,” said Farhan Akhtar, a community leader.