Guwahati: In a recent statement on March 10, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the controversy surrounding the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) 2019, urging those in opposition to approach the Supreme Court for resolution rather than resorting to public agitation. The Chief Minister emphasised the state’s commitment to rapid development and discouraged the creation of an agitated environment that could potentially disrupt the ongoing progress.
CM Sarma drew a historical parallel, citing the Supreme Court’s repeal of the controversial Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunal) Act (IMDT) in Assam after a legal battle. Highlighting the significance of adhering to legal processes, he underscored that political parties and organisations have the right to voice their concerns but cautioned against defying high court orders, referring to a previous instance where the Guwahati High Court barred the call for an ‘Assam Bandh’ in 2013. CM Sarma said if any political party calls for Assam Bandh defying Guwahati High Court order, they will face consequences of registration cancellation.
The Chief Minister clarified that the CAA has been duly passed in both houses of Parliament, with only the notification pending from the Union Home Ministry. Expressing respect for opposing sentiments, Sarma discouraged the use of agitation or the imposition of an ‘Assam Bandh’ as a means of protest. Instead, he urged dissenting voices to approach the apex court, asserting that if their arguments held merit, the Supreme Court had the authority to dismiss the CAA.
Taking a proactive stance, Sarma emphasized that any political party calling for an ‘Assam Bandh’ would be met with a response from the government, approaching the Election Commission to address potential disruptions. This strategic approach positions the legal system as the appropriate avenue for addressing concerns surrounding the CAA, aligning with the state’s focus on a systemati
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