Assam Chief Minister’s Remark on Vegetable Prices Spurs Controversy; Hyderabad MP Responds

Hyderabad, July 14, 2023: A controversial statement by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma blaming Muslim vegetable vendors for the soaring prices of vegetables has drawn sharp reactions. Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi taunted Mr. Sarma for shifting the blame onto “Miya bhai” and sarcastically remarked that they might even blame their personal failures on the same.

The Assam Chief Minister’s statement created a stir when he alleged that Muslim traders, referred to as “Miya”, were selling vegetables at inflated prices. He further suggested that if “Assamese people” were selling vegetables, they would not charge their own people higher prices.

In response, Asaduddin Owaisi, President of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), fired back with a sharp retort, highlighting the tendency of some individuals to blame the Miya community for various issues. He pointed out that there seems to be a group that finds it convenient to hold Miya ji responsible even for situations beyond their control, comparing it to blaming a buffalo for not giving milk or a hen for not laying eggs.

The AIMIM chief also made a sardonic remark about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent interactions with foreign Muslims, alluding to their “deep friendship.” He humorously suggested managing by asking them for tomatoes, spinach, potatoes, and other produce.

The controversy surrounding Chief Minister Sarma’s remarks has brought attention to the sensitive issue of communal tensions and allegations of “outsiders” distorting local culture and language in Assam. Such statements have drawn criticism from various quarters for their potential to exacerbate social divisions and stoke further tensions.