Assam CM: Government Can’t Bar Pre-1951 Migrants from Work, PWD Told to Hire 50% Locals

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday stated that the state government cannot prevent ‘Miyas’ (Bangladeshi Muslims) who settled in Assam before 1951 from working in the state. The chief minister also directed Public Works Department (PWD) contractors to make sure that at least 50 per cent of workers in all future projects of the department are from indigenous Assamese communities.

While addressing the issue of employment and migration, CM Sarma further commented that the government intends to strike a balance between development and local job creation. He also underlined the fact that the directive is aimed at giving priority to Assamese youth and does not amount to a ban on employment for any community.

The Chief Minister said the policy would be implemented in upcoming PWD projects, particularly large-scale infrastructure works, to ensure that local people benefit directly from public spending.

Reiterating the fact that major infrastructure initiatives are underway in Guwahati, CM Sarma said solidification of the financial base of the indigenous Assamese community remains the central objective of the state government. Inclusive growth, meted with protection of local interests, is essential for long-term stability and sustainability in Assam.

The Chief Minister’s remarks come amid a broader debate in Assam over employment opportunities, migration and community representation, with growing demands for greater safeguards for indigenous communities in public sector projects.

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