Himanta Sarma Flags Demographic Shift in Assam, Bengal

Assam CM Himanta Sarma warns of demographic changes in Assam and Bengal, citing illegal influx, as West Bengal election campaign intensifies.

Sarma Raises Alarm

Amid the ongoing West Bengal Assembly elections, Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday claimed that Hindus could lose their majority status in Assam and West Bengal within the next two decades due to alleged illegal immigration from Bangladesh. The statement, made during a press conference in Kolkata, has added a sharp political edge to an already heated campaign.

Sarma asserted that demographic changes in border districts are becoming increasingly visible, warning of long-term socio-political consequences if the trend continues.

Claims On Demography

Elaborating on his remarks, Sarma said that at least ten border districts have reported a surge in voter population linked to what he described as “demographic shifts and population explosion.” He alleged that political interests were preventing strict action against illegal infiltration.

According to him, once certain communities cross the 50 per cent mark, the “demographic identity” of these regions could undergo irreversible change. However, no official data was cited during the briefing to substantiate these claims.

Election Campaign Heats

The remarks come at a crucial time, just after the first phase of polling in West Bengal, which recorded a high voter turnout. Senior leaders across parties have intensified campaigning across the state.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to address three rallies on Saturday, including in Hooghly, Kolkata, and South 24 Parganas, signalling the party’s renewed push in the state.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders have continued aggressive outreach, with Sarma also predicting a strong electoral performance for his party.

EC Takes Action

In a significant development, the Election Commission of India suspended five officers for alleged misconduct and failure to maintain neutrality during the first phase of polling.

The officers, posted in areas such as Diamond Harbour and Falta, face disciplinary proceedings. The Commission has not publicly detailed the nature of violations but reiterated its commitment to ensuring free and fair elections.

Political Reactions Intensify

Political leaders across parties responded sharply to developments on the ground. TMC general secretary Abhishek Banerjee claimed his party had performed strongly in the first phase, stating that early trends indicated a comfortable lead.

On the other hand, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav expressed confidence that Mamata Banerjee would secure a fourth consecutive term in office.

The BJP, however, maintained that a “wave for change” was visible across constituencies.

Crowds And Chaos

Campaign events across the state witnessed massive turnouts, occasionally leading to disorder. A roadshow by Tejashwi Yadav in Bhatpara saw brief chaos due to overcrowding, prompting swift intervention by local authorities.

Similarly, large gatherings were reported during rallies and roadshows by multiple parties, reflecting heightened voter engagement in what is being seen as a closely watched electoral contest.

What Lies Ahead

With multiple phases of polling still remaining, the political discourse is expected to sharpen further. Issues such as migration, governance, and law enforcement are likely to dominate campaign narratives in the coming days.

The Election Commission’s actions signal tighter scrutiny as voting progresses, while parties continue to mobilise support across urban and rural constituencies.

As the campaign enters a decisive phase, the focus remains on voter turnout, administrative neutrality, and the credibility of competing claims.