Karim Uddin Barbhuiya, popularly known as Saju — the Sonai MLA who recently switched from the AIUDF to the Asom Gana Parishad — has urged Muslims to move closer to the NDA-led ruling alliance, saying the shift would be reciprocated by the government.
Barbhuiya was given a warm reception at the district AGP office in Silchar on Wednesday, where he made his first public remarks since joining the party.
"The time has come for the minorities to step towards the NDA, which will definitely be reciprocated by the ruling alliance," he said. "I have joined the AGP only to ensure the safety, security, and prosperity of the Muslims."
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Barbhuiya, once considered a close associate of AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal, praised Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, saying Muslims had received all necessary facilities and support under the present BJP-led government.
Responding to questions about the state government's eviction drives — a politically sensitive issue for Muslim communities in Assam — Barbhuiya said Muslims were not opposed to evictions of illegal dwellers from government land.
"Muslims also support evicting the illegal dwellers from government lands. However, if genuine Indian Muslims are evicted, I will be the first one to protest," he said.