Protests in Assam, PM Modi gives assurance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave an assurance to the people of Assam that they have nothing to worry about after the passing of the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB).  Amid massive protests in the state, he tweeted that no one can take away the rights of the people.

I want to assure my brothers and sisters of Assam that they have nothing to worry.. I want to assure them – no one can take away your rights, unique identity and beautiful culture. It will continue to flourish and grow. – Prime Minister Narendra Modi

PM Modi also said that the Centre is committed to constitutionally safeguard the political, linguistic, cultural and land rights of the Assamese people.

Assam and Tripura have been caught up in protests over the CAB which allows non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan to become Indian citizens. States in the north east part of India are worried that the law will encourage a flood of migrants from neighbouring Bangladesh.

Protesters clashed with policemen in the two states. There is total chaos with the paramilitary forces called in.

In Assam, the army has been patrolling the streets. There is curfew but people are defying this to come out into the streets. All train services have been stopped and flights have been disrupted. Mobile internet services are suspended in 10 districts in the state.

Students have boycotted classes in universities and colleges to attend the protests.

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