Guwahati (Assam) [India], January 2 (HBTV): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday expressed concern over the increasing infiltration into the state, describing the situation as "worrying." He revealed that 20 to 30 infiltrators are being detected daily in Assam following unrest in Bangladesh.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Mini Inter-State Bus Terminus at Khanapara, Sarma said he had discussed the issue with his counterparts from other northeastern states and West Bengal.

‘We have seen a huge increase in infiltration in Assam and India. Two days ago, I also discussed this with my counterparts from various northeastern states and the West Bengal government. Assam Police is detecting 20 to 30 infiltrators every day, and the same number of infiltrators are being seen in Tripura,’ Sarma said.

He attributed the spike to the collapse of Bangladesh's textile industry after recent unrest. ‘Workers from the textile industry in Bangladesh are coming to India, and many textile factory owners in our country are encouraging them. I have also raised this issue with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during our last meeting. This is very concerning because we have never detected so many infiltrators before,’ he added.

The situation in Bangladesh has worsened since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's departure in August last year, with minorities, primarily Hindus, increasingly targeted.

Jihadi Threat and Security Measures

Sarma also highlighted the ‘jihadi threat’ in Assam, stating that the state police recently dismantled a major module and arrested 23 individuals.

‘Recently, we busted a major module and arrested 23 people. Several weapons have been seized. Assam Police is fully aware of the threat posed by jihadi elements across the border,’ Sarma said.

Regarding Bangladeshi Hindus entering India, Sarma advised against encouraging such migration.

‘The numbers are very small, and whoever wanted to come would have done so 40 years ago. I think we should not encourage them to come to India. The Prime Minister is continuously working to provide security in Bangladesh, and the Hindu people of Bangladesh are responding maturely. Over the past five months, we have not seen any Hindu Bangladeshi in Assam,’ he said.

New Year Wishes

Earlier, CM Sarma extended New Year wishes, expressing optimism for India's future.

‘Happy New Year. I'd like to convey my best wishes to every citizen of India for the year 2025. This year will lay a solid foundation for Viksit Bharat. India will prosper, become stronger, and shine in the world,’ he said.

India welcomed 2025 with celebrations across the country as citizens marked the occasion with joy and enthusiasm.

(ANI)