The situation in Assam regarding the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) remains contentious, with a united front of at least 16 Opposition parties, led by the Congress, expressing their opposition to the implementation of the CAA in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The United Opposition Forum, Assam (UPFA), has sought an appointment with the Prime Minister during his visit to the state on March 8 and 9, aiming to convey their concerns and opposition to the CAA.

Perceived Threat to Assamese Identity

The Opposition parties, including the Congress, AJP, Trinamool Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, Shiv Sena, SP, RJD, NCP, and left parties, express a strong perception among the people of Assam that the CAA could endanger the culture, history, socio-economic conditions, social fabric, and identity of the Assamese people.

Historical Context and Migration Concerns

 The opposition to the CAA in Assam is rooted in the state's history of large-scale migration from neighboring Bangladesh since the Partition and even after the creation of Bangladesh in 1971. Critics argue that Assam would bear the maximum brunt of the CAA, which seeks to offer Indian citizenship to non-Muslim "persecuted" migrants from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan until 2014.

Past Protests and Concerns

The letter mentions the protests against the CAA in 2019-20, prior to the outbreak of Covid-19, during which five people were killed, and several others were injured. Despite strong protests, the BJP won nine seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, forming the government in the state for the second consecutive term in May 2021.

Opposition Unity

The Opposition forum, comprising various parties, was formed with the goal of fighting the Lok Sabha polls together against the BJP and its allies in Assam, which has 14 Lok Sabha seats.

The Opposition seeks the Prime Minister's intervention to prevent the implementation of the CAA, highlighting the concerns and sentiments of the people of Assam regarding the potential impact on their identity and socio-cultural fabric. The situation remains sensitive, and the government's response will play a crucial role in addressing the concerns raised by the Opposition and the people of Assam.