Bokakhat (Assam): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday expressed concern over the evolving situation in neighbouring Bangladesh, warning that its fallout could be felt in Assam in the coming days.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an official programme in Bokakhat, Sarma said the recent developments across the border were alarming, particularly reports of rising violence against the Hindu community.
He stressed the need for heightened vigilance in Assam given its geographical proximity and long-standing security sensitivities.
“Whatever is happening in Bangladesh is a matter of concern for us. Torture and attacks on Hindus are reportedly increasing, which is worrying. We may see its effects in Assam as well,” the chief minister said.
Referring to internal security challenges, Sarma said extremist elements had been present in the state for years and could still be operating in covert forms.
He cautioned that some individuals may be functioning as sleeper cells, posing a continuing threat.
“We have repeatedly found evidence of such activities over the last decade. There could still be some elements hiding somewhere,” he added.
The chief minister underlined the need for constant monitoring of the situation and said efforts must also be made to reassure and morally support the Hindu community in Bangladesh amid the current unrest.
According to Bangladesh’s 2022 census, Hindus number around 13.13 million, constituting nearly eight per cent of the country’s population.
Sarma said Assam’s security concerns are closely linked to broader regional and geopolitical developments and will persist until there is a visible improvement in the overall situation.
In December last year, security agencies arrested 11 people in Assam and Tripura for their alleged links with Bangladesh-based fundamentalist groups, which, according to police, were attempting to destabilise the Northeast.
