MT Desk: Allegations of widespread rights violations have emerged in Assam, where the government has demolished hundreds of homes belonging to Bengali-speaking Muslim families. The Socialist Party India (SPI) has condemned the actions as illegal and inhumane. Syed Tahseen Ahmed, chairman of the SPI Parliamentary Board, described the situation as “deeply troubling.” He stated that the affected families had all necessary documents, yet their homes and businesses were destroyed. “Their homes were deliberately targeted,” he said. “These people have lived here for decades, and all their documents are in order. Under which law is it justified to demolish a village with just two days’ notice?” he asked.
An eight-member delegation from SPI visited Assam recently to assess the situation on the ground. The delegation toured the affected areas and spoke directly with residents, documenting their grievances and the humanitarian impact of the government’s actions.
Ahmed reported that in Hasila Bhal, 667 Muslim families had their homes demolished on a mere two days’ notice, resulting in at least three deaths. In Karbala, approximately 300 families are now living in temporary shelters provided on land given by a local Muslim farmer, who himself is reportedly facing harassment from authorities.
In Jannatpur, 161 families lost their homes built on land temporarily provided by a local farmer. Similarly, in Dhabari district’s Balsipara, nearly 2,000 families were displaced, leaving around 10,000 people without proper shelter. “All these people are now living under the open sky, with only makeshift shelters for protection,” Ahmed added. “Approximately 200 police personnel were stationed in the area. We were not allowed inside, but over 100 residents came out to share their suffering with us.”
The SPI delegation has called on the Assam government to halt further demolitions and ensure immediate relief and rehabilitation for the displaced families. “This is not just about property; it is about the dignity and lives of human beings,” Ahmed said. “Ignoring their plight only deepens the social and humanitarian crisis.”
Social media and local activists have expressed outrage over the demolitions. Many have highlighted that such actions, particularly against Bengali-speaking Muslims with valid documentation, constitute a severe violation of fundamental rights.
“The government’s approach reflects systemic neglect and discrimination,” said Ahmed. “The international community and civil society must take notice to prevent further suffering and injustice.”
As Assam grapples with this crisis, the voices of displaced Bengali-speaking Muslim families, amplified by the SPI delegation, underscore the urgent need for accountability, legal redress, and humanitarian assistance.
