Guwahati, Dec 6: Assam Congress President Bhupen Borah strongly criticized the Assam government’s decision to impose a comprehensive beef ban, accusing Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the BJP of encroaching on personal freedoms and cultural rights.
Speaking to reporters on December 5, Borah said the Congress party has always upheld the principles of equality, freedom, and respect for cultural diversity as enshrined in the Indian Constitution. He criticized the government’s move as an unwarranted restriction on individual choices.
“The government should not dictate what people eat, wear, or how they practice their traditions. Every citizen has the constitutional right to make these personal decisions,” Borah said.
“Congress Respects Diversity”
Borah emphasized Congress’ commitment to social equality and non-interference in personal choices, stating, “For Congress, every citizen is equal, irrespective of their religion, culture, or food preferences. We have never interfered with people’s right to choose food or lifestyle. These freedoms are fundamental to our belief system.”
His remarks directly responded to the Assam government’s ban, which prohibits the consumption and serving of beef in public places, including hotels and restaurants. He called the decision a government overreach, asserting, “It is not the government’s place to decide what people eat. Every individual, be they Hindu, Muslim, Christian, or from any other community, has the right to make their own choices.”
Criticism of BJP’s Agenda
Borah also criticized the BJP and RSS for using cow worship as a political tool to impose their beliefs on others. While acknowledging the cultural significance of cows in Hinduism, he said, “The BJP and RSS may talk about Gau Mata, but it is wrong to force everyone to follow the same practices. Respect for diversity is essential to India’s unity.”
He cited Chaolung Sukapha, the founder of the Ahom dynasty, as an example of leadership that respected cultural differences. “When Sukapha established his rule, he respected the food habits, religions, and traditions of his people. This is the leadership we need today – one that unites, not divides,” Borah added.
Responding to Himanta Biswa Sarma’s Challenge
Borah dismissed a challenge reportedly made by CM Sarma, who suggested that if Congress leaders committed to stop eating beef, the BJP would do the same. “Am I expected to decide what Himanta Biswa Sarma eats, wears, or how he celebrates Bihu? Leadership is about governance, not controlling personal lives,” he quipped.
Assam Government’s Beef Ban Announcement
On December 4, CM Sarma announced a statewide ban on the consumption and serving of beef in public places, expanding earlier restrictions near temples. “From today, beef will not be served in any restaurant, hotel, or public venue,” Sarma said, adding that the decision was aligned with certain cultural sensitivities.
“What Bhupen Borah and Rakibul Hussain wanted will be fulfilled now. Therefore, we hope the Congress will support us,” Sarma remarked sarcastically, alluding to Congress leaders’ previous comments on respecting cultural diversity.
Congress’ Promise to Protect Rights
Borah reaffirmed Congress’ commitment to safeguarding personal freedoms and cultural rights. “We will always protect the traditions, culture, and rights of the people as guaranteed by the Indian Constitution. The Congress party will continue to stand for these values and oppose any attempt to control the personal lives of citizens,” he declared.
Borah’s comments underline the broader debate over personal freedoms and the balance between cultural practices and individual rights, a contentious issue in Assam’s evolving political landscape.
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