A clear difference has emerged between Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and state BJP president Dilip Saikia on the sensitive issue of votes of Bengali-speaking Muslims, commonly referred to as “Miya” in the state.
Speaking to reporters, Dilip Saikia said the BJP can accept Miya votes if the community shows love for Assam and respects its land, culture and traditions.
“If the Miya starts loving Assam, if they do not harm our land, culture and traditions, then we will definitely need their votes. But till they snatch our rights and hurt our culture and customs, we do not want their votes,” Saikia said. 
The statement comes just days after Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took a completely opposite line.On November 22, Sarma told the media that Miyas vote as a solid block, which is why they are gaining political strength, while votes of indigenous communities remain divided.“Miyas vote together in a chunk. That is why they are moving forward politically. Our votes are scattered,” the Chief Minister had said, urging “our people” to vote unitedly.
Sarma has repeatedly described the growing population of Bengali-speaking Muslims as a threat to Assam’s identity and has vowed to continue tough measures against alleged illegal settlers.
“My fight against Miya-Muslims will continue as long as I remain Chief Minister. There will be no compromise,” Sarma said on several occasions.
The state government has carried out multiple eviction drives this year, clearing thousands of families from government and forest land in districts like Goalpara, Kamrup and Darrang.
Sarma has warned that without constant “pressure”, Miya-Muslims could become 38 per cent of Assam’s population by the next census.
