No More Divisions: Hindu, Muslim MLAs Unite on ‘No Friday Namaz Break’ Rule in Assam Assembly.

“Hindu, Muslim MLAs Sat Together”: Assam CM Himanta Sarma On ‘No Namaz Break On Friday’ Decision.

The state assembly has abolished the long-standing practice of a two-hour recess every Friday for Jumma Prayers, a practice that originated in colonial-era Assam.

Subham Saxena | HENB | New Delhi | Sept 1, 2024:: While addressing media in Ranchi on Saturday, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma clarified that the decision to discontinue the two-hour adjournment for Jumma prayers in the state assembly was a unanimous one, taken jointly by Hindu and Muslim MLAs. He emphasized that the legislators collectively agreed to work during this period, prompting the change.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma explained the reasoning behind discontinuing the two-hour break for Jumma prayers in the state assembly. He stated, ‘The Hindus and Muslims of our assembly sat in the Rules Committee and unanimously resolved that the two-hour break is not right. We should work during this period as well.’ He added that this practice, which began in 1937, has been discontinued effective yesterday. He added, “This is a unanimous decision. This is not just my decision alone,’ highlighting the consensus among all members.”

The Assam state assembly has abolished the long-standing tradition of a two-hour adjournment every Friday for Jumma Prayers, a practice initially introduced by the Muslim League government led by Saadulah in colonial Assam. According to Speaker Biswajit Daimary, the decision was necessitated by the challenges of conducting meaningful discussions on Fridays due to time constraints.

Tejashwi Yadav, former Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar and RJD leader, criticized Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, accusing him of seeking ‘cheap popularity’ through his decision to end the Friday adjournment for Jumma Prayers. Yadav further alleged that the BJP aims to ‘target Muslims in some way or another.’ Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party leader ST Hassan denounced CM Sarma, stating that he ‘spreads poison in society’ and his government is ‘anti-Muslim’.

Previously, the Assam Assembly would adjourn its Friday sittings at 11 am to accommodate Muslim members’ prayers. However, under the newly amended rule, the Assembly will now conduct its proceedings without any religious adjournments. As per the revised schedule, the Assembly will commence its daily proceedings, including Fridays, at 9:30 am. The amendment aims to discontinue a colonial-era practice that allegedly perpetuated religious divisions in society.
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__Inputs from NDTV via ANI.