In the lead-up to the panchayat elections in Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s recent comment suggesting that the Congress party should adopt a ‘lungi’ as its symbol has stirred significant political controversy. The remark, perceived by many as targeting the attire associated with Bengali-speaking Muslim communities, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups.
The Controversial Statement
Addressing a rally in Dhemaji district, Assam CM Sarma criticized the Congress for its past governance, stating:
“Ask Congress if they had free admission in colleges at their time. No. Was a fee needed for 10th standard admission forms? Yes. Was free rice given? Had the Dhemaji Medical and Engineering Colleges been built then? The answer is ‘no’. There were only lungi and dhoti (during the Congress regime). That’s why I ask the Congress people, they ought to change the (party) symbol from hand to ‘lungi’.”
The ‘lungi’, a traditional garment, is commonly worn by Bengali-speaking Muslim men in the Northeast. Sarma’s comment has been interpreted by many as a veiled reference to this community, raising concerns about communal undertones in political discourse.
Congress’s Response
Reacting to Sarma’s statement, Assam Congress President Bhupen Bora condemned the remark, emphasizing the party’s inclusive values. He stated:
“Our perspective at Congress is inclusive. If the BJP assumes they can dictate our choice of symbol, why don’t they answer why their own symbol is a lotus? They ought to replace their symbol with Nathuram Godse’s gun used to assassinate Mahatma Gandhi.”
Bora’s reference to Nathuram Godse, Mahatma Gandhi’s assassin, was a pointed critique, suggesting that the BJP should introspect on its own symbolism and historical associations.
Political Ramifications
The exchange between Sarma and Bora has intensified the political atmosphere in Assam ahead of the panchayat elections. With elections scheduled in two phases on May 2 and May 7, and results to be declared on May 11, such controversies are likely to influence voter sentiments.
Analysts suggest that Sarma’s remark may be a strategic move to consolidate certain voter bases by appealing to cultural and communal identities. However, this approach risks alienating minority communities and exacerbating social divisions.
Public and Civil Society Reactions
Civil society organizations and community leaders have expressed concern over the communal implications of Sarma’s statement. Many view the remark as an attempt to marginalize specific communities and divert attention from pressing governance issues.
Social media platforms have seen a surge in discussions, with hashtags like #LungiPolitics and #InclusiveIndia trending, reflecting widespread public engagement and debate on the matter.
Historical Context and Symbolism
The ‘lungi’ has been a subject of political discourse in Assam in the past, often used to stereotype and marginalize Bengali-speaking Muslim communities. Such references have historically been employed to question the legitimacy and identity of these communities, contributing to social tensions.
Sarma’s recent comment revives these contentious narratives, prompting calls for more responsible and inclusive political rhetoric.
Electoral Stakes and Strategies
As the panchayat elections near, political parties are recalibrating their strategies to secure grassroots support. The BJP, led by Himanta Biswa Sarma, continues to focus on showcasing development projects and social welfare initiatives, while attempting to weaken the Congress by portraying it as out of touch with present-day Assamese aspirations. However, such culturally sensitive remarks, even if intended for political satire, can carry unintended consequences, especially in a region known for its complex ethnic and communal dynamics.
Meanwhile, the Congress is using the incident to reaffirm its commitment to secularism and inclusivity, rallying minority and marginalized groups to counter the narrative. Bhupen Bora and other leaders have embarked on public outreach campaigns across minority-dominated districts, asserting that their party represents the unity and diversity of Assam. This incident, though controversial, has given the Congress an opportunity to reenergize its voter base and frame the BJP’s rhetoric as divisive ahead of the elections.
As Assam approaches its panchayat elections, the political landscape is marked by heightened rhetoric and communal sensitivities. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s ‘lungi’ remark has not only sparked controversy but also highlighted the need for political leaders to engage in discourse that unites rather than divides.
The incident serves as a reminder of the power of words in shaping public opinion and the importance of fostering an inclusive political environment that respects the diverse cultural fabric of the region.
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