Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Slams Beef Weaponization Against Hindus: Vows Strict Action

Guwahati, June 12, 2025 – In a firm and controversial address, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused certain groups of “weaponizing beef” to provoke and displace Hindus from mixed neighborhoods. Citing recent incidents following Eid-ul-Zuha celebrations, Sarma warned that such actions threaten Assam’s communal harmony and vowed to take strict legal action.

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Beef as a Deliberate Provocation Against Hindus

Speaking at a press conference at the BJP state office, Sarma alleged a disturbing trend of beef leftovers being intentionally discarded in Hindu-majority areas post-Eid, particularly near Cotton University, Dhubri, Hojai, and Sribhumi. He described this as part of a larger plan to drive out Hindu families and shift demographics in favor of Muslim-majority areas.

“This is called weaponizing beef, which is bad, and I will never allow it,” Sarma stated unequivocally.

He recalled earlier times when Muslim families living in Hindu localities were more sensitive about dietary practices, often choosing to consume beef only in Muslim-dominated regions. That restraint, he claims, is being deliberately abandoned today.

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Illegal Cattle Slaughter Triggers Arrests and Protests

The Chief Minister revealed that 16 individuals were arrested for illegally slaughtering cattle during Eid. Five unlicensed slaughter sites were uncovered in Cachar and Karimganj districts, with cattle parts reportedly dumped near temples and educational institutions, sparking local protests, especially in Hojai and Dhubri.

Sarma reiterated that while religious freedom is constitutionally protected, provocative acts that disrupt social order will not be tolerated, regardless of religion. He pointed to the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, which prohibits the slaughter or sale of beef in Hindu, Jain, and Sikh-majority areas, or within 5 km of temples and Vaishnavite satras, though beef consumption itself remains legal in the state.

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A Broader Warning: What’s Next for Sacred Spaces?

Sarma voiced concerns that if current trends continue unchecked, even sacred Hindu sites like the Kamakhya Temple could be targeted in the coming decades.

“If this is allowed to continue, in 20 years someone will throw beef in front of Kamakhya Temple,” he warned.

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Call for Assamese Unity Against Illegal Immigration

The Chief Minister also linked these incidents to illegal immigration from Bangladesh, suggesting a calculated attempt to change Assam’s demographic balance. He noted that 2,895 Facebook accounts from Islamabad, Dhaka, and Riyadh have been actively commenting only on Palestine and Assam, indicating possible foreign influence in stoking local tensions.

While praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support, Sarma urged local communities to take a firmer stand and stop relying solely on the Centre.

“Modi ji alone cannot protect us,” he said, criticizing certain Assamese lawyers and petitioners for opposing deportation efforts—unlike in Gujarat, where such measures reportedly face no legal obstacles.

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Tensions Escalate: Political and Community Responses

In response to these incidents, restrictions were imposed in Dhubri after reports of beef waste found in a temple complex. Sarma noted that only three Muslim individuals reached out to condemn the incidents, lamenting the community’s silence.

He distinguished between “good Muslims who oppose such acts” and those using beef as a provocation, calling on Muslim leaders to discourage provocative behaviors, such as posting beef photos on social media.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Debabrata Saikia opposed the state government’s plans to deport illegal immigrants in the Assembly, drawing criticism from Sarma for what he termed the party’s silence on communal provocations.

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Revisiting the NRC and the Pushback Policy

Sarma also emphasized the state’s renewed commitment to re-verifying the National Register of Citizens (NRC), expressing dissatisfaction with its current state. Once the flood situation stabilizes, the government plans to deport 35 identified illegal immigrants under the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act, 1950.

He referenced Arunachal Pradesh’s success in deterring illegal immigration through a climate of fear, stating that “fear of deportation” is a critical deterrent.

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Why This Matters for Hindus in Assam

Sarma argued that the weaponization of beef is not about food but about cultural and demographic warfare. With 34% of Assam’s population identifying as Muslim and 61% as Hindu (2011 Census), the Chief Minister warned that communal equilibrium is under threat.

The government’s recent ban on beef in hotels, restaurants, and public events (effective from December 4, 2024) further reflects its intent to safeguard Hindu religious sentiments.

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Conclusion: Preserving Assam’s Cultural Fabric

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s outspoken warning marks a turning point in Assam’s communal narrative. By connecting beef provocation, illegal immigration, and global sympathizers, he framed the issue as part of a larger battle for Assamese identity and Hindu survival.

“Assam needs unity, vigilance, and bold action to defend its religious and cultural harmony,” Sarma concluded.

As the state grapples with these complex issues, Sarma’s strong rhetoric and promises of strict action may signal a new chapter in Assam’s political and social landscape.