Sushmita Dev demands Khilonjiya or Bhoomiputra status for Bengalis of Barak Valley

Rajya Sabha MP and Trinamool Congress leader Sushmita Dev is demanding equal rights for Bengalis in Assam, regardless of their religious affiliation, advocating for Khilanjiya or Bhoomiputra status.

 She accuses the BJP-led government, including Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma, of systematically depriving Bengalis of their civil rights. Highlighting discriminatory policies such as the requirement of three men to live together for land lease approvals, she argues that such measures target Bengalis and deny them basic rights.

Sushmita Dev asserts that Bengalis, both Hindu and Muslim, have deep roots in Assam, dating back to historical events such as the formation of the province in 1874 and the subsequent migration of Hindu Bengalis from Sylhet.

 She emphasizes the shared heritage of Bengalis with other communities in Assam, challenging the notion of Bengalis as outsiders. Sushmita pledges to pursue legal avenues, including approaching the high court if necessary, to secure Khilanjiya or Bhoomiputra status for Bengalis, asserting their rightful place as original inhabitants of Assam.