NRC: We would seek reverification of 20% in bordering districts & 10% in other areas, says new Assam CM

May 10: On Monday, just after the swearing-in ceremony, the new Chief Minister of Assam, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma held a press conference in Guwahati in which he spoke on a gamut of issues.

Replying to a query by a journalist on National Register of Citizens (NRC), Dr Sarma said, “As regards NRC, our stand is very clear. We have raised the demand of re-verification of 20 percent of cases in the bordering districts of Assam’ whereas, for the rest of the districts, we want 10 percent re-verification. If after this re-verification, we find that the exercise is satisfactory, then we will proceed ahead. However, if we find that even after re-verification, there are major anomalies in the NRC, then we would urge upon the Supreme Court to analyse the situation and give its directives on this issue.”

As regards the cut-off date for NRC (1951 or 1971), the Chief Minister said, “Let us now tackle the prevailing Covid situation in the state. As regards the baseline year of NRC, we will discuss this issue afterwards with the people of Assam and then finally decide on it based on the wishes of the people of the state.”

On the issue of solving the issues of the tribes of the state, the Chief minister replied that the rights and emotions of them will be taken into due consideration by his government. An amicable solution will be reached through discussion. “Assam will get a pro-active government which will remain functional round the clock, at midnight, at 5 AM and also at 2 PM. We all will work as a team,” said the new Chief Minister.

During the press meet, Chief Minister Biswa Sarma further informed that first cabinet meeting under the Chief Ministership of Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma will take place on 11 May.