AIUDF chief and MLA Badruddin Ajmal has accused the government of bypassing constitutional safeguards in its handling of suspected illegal Bangladeshi nationals and proposed changes to Waqf Board representation, sharpening a politically sensitive debate in Assam.
Speaking to reporters in Guwahati on Tuesday, Ajmal said detection, deportation and alleged “pushback” of suspected illegal Bangladeshi nationals could not be carried out outside due process. He said citizenship and deportation questions must be settled under law, not through executive action that leaves affected families without legal remedy.
Ajmal described pushback as unlawful and argued that even those suspected of illegal entry were entitled to procedural protection. His remarks came amid heightened scrutiny of Assam’s drive against people declared foreigners or suspected of having entered from Bangladesh without valid documents. The issue has drawn legal challenges from families and rights groups, who allege that some residents with papers have been detained or forced across the border without adequate verification.
The Assam government has maintained that action is being taken against illegal entrants and declared foreigners, while insisting that genuine citizens will not be targeted. The state has also cited the long-running political and demographic anxieties around migration from Bangladesh, a question that has shaped Assam’s politics for decades and remains central to the ruling party’s campaign narrative.
Ajmal also criticised moves to include Hindu members in Waqf Boards, saying management of Muslim charitable and religious endowments should remain in the hands of the community. He argued that such appointments would undermine the religious character of Waqf institutions and violate the spirit of minority rights.
The debate over Waqf governance has intensified after amendments to central Waqf law expanded the scope for non-Muslim representation and strengthened government oversight. Supporters say the changes are intended to improve transparency, curb encroachment and modernise the administration of Waqf assets. Opponents argue they dilute community control and open the door to political interference.
Ajmal’s intervention places the AIUDF firmly against two policy tracks backed by the ruling establishment: tighter action on suspected illegal migration and deeper state supervision of Waqf institutions.
Nabin ditches Jammu outreach for Delhi talks 