Assam Deputy Speaker Dr. Numal Momin recently stated that 15 districts in the state now have a Muslim-majority population. He made this statement during a public program that focused on population trends and the importance of demographic balance in regional development. His remarks have drawn both political attention and public debate across the state.
According to Momin, the shift in population patterns is the result of several long-standing socio-economic and political factors. He emphasized that the issue should not be viewed through a communal lens but rather as a matter of policy and planning that requires government attention. He added that population growth in certain districts has been significantly higher than in others, leading to a demographic transformation that could influence future policymaking and resource allocation.
Dr. Momin also linked the issue to education, healthcare, and socio-economic conditions. He stressed that increased public awareness and access to government schemes could help bring more balance to population growth trends. In his view, development indicators should be strengthened in these regions to ensure inclusive progress, regardless of religious background.
The statement has sparked discussions among political parties and civil society groups. While some leaders have supported Momin’s call for addressing population-related issues through education and healthcare reforms, others have cautioned against generalizations that could cause social tensions. Critics have also urged that any discussion around demographic change must rely on verified data from official census sources and not lead to unwarranted assumptions.
As of the last Census in 2011, Assam had a Muslim population of around 34 percent. While official data from the upcoming census is yet to be released, local estimates and studies have indicated that several districts may now have a Muslim majority based on population trends over the past decade. Districts such as Dhubri, Goalpara, Barpeta, and Morigaon have consistently shown high Muslim populations in previous records.
Observers note that the discussion around demographic change is not new in Assam. Over the years, the topic has surfaced in relation to migration, identity politics, and resource distribution. The region’s complex socio-political history, especially in relation to the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), has further intensified public interest in population dynamics.
Dr. Momin has clarified that his intention is not to target any community but to highlight the need for long-term planning and equal development. He called for a data-driven approach and urged policymakers to take into account all aspects of demographic change while framing welfare schemes and development policies.
As the debate continues, experts and analysts are calling for updated census figures to provide a clear picture of Assam’s population structure. The issue remains sensitive, and many are stressing the importance of handling it with care, inclusiveness, and a focus on social harmony.
