Trinamool Congress Leader Sushmita Dev Asserts Barak Valley Bengalis as Indigenous Residents of Assam

Rajya Sabha MP and prominent Trinamool Congress leader Sushmita Dev emphasized the indigenous status of Bengalis in Barak Valley, southern Assam, dating back to 1874. Dev criticized the BJP-led government and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, highlighting the government’s recognition of five Muslim communities as ‘bhumiputras’ of Assam. She expressed concern over the status of other communities in terms of government jobs and land purchase, particularly in Barak Valley.

Dev stated that since the formation of Assam State in 1874, Barak Valley residents have been an integral part of the state. She referenced historical migrations within Assam during India’s independence and the partition, mentioning families like Arun Kumar Chanda, Ramani Mohan Das, and Abdul Muktadir Chouhdury as long-term residents of Barak Valley.

Calling for a clear definition of ‘khilonjia’ (indigenous), Dev urged the government to recognize Bengalis of Barak Valley, both Hindu and Muslim, as indigenous to Assam. She threatened to approach the Supreme Court of India after the Lok Sabha elections if the government fails to do so.