Assam govt to let Muslims leave office early

In what may be called a calculated move, the BJP-led alliance government on Monday allowed its all Muslim employees to leave their respective offices half-an-hour before the schedule time during the month of Ramzan. However, they have been asked to attend the office half-an-hour earlier in the morning.

The general administration department in a message to all the departmental heads on Monday said, “Employees belonging to the Muslim community are allowed to leave office at 4.30 pm, half-an-hour before.”

However, it is subject to condition that Muslim employees will have to attend offices half-an-hour before, that is 9.30 am.

This has come close on the heels of assurance of the BJP government to the minority communities to feel safe and protected. The representatives recently met the leaders of various minority communities and told them categorically not to listen to rumours.

He assured them BJP will work for the welfare of all, irrespective of religion, caste or community. A section in the state has expressed apprehension whether the BJP—mostly known as the Hindu party—would be sincere enough to protect the interest of Muslims, Christians, Sikhs and Jains.

Assam BJP vice-president Harekrishna Bharali told reporters, “A section of people is trying to confuse the minority communities, saying the BJP is against their interests. But the people of Assam reposed faith in the BJP by giving them the responsibility to serve society and work for development. We need to work together irrespective of religion, caste and community and try to bridge the communication gap.”

Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal has also directed the authorities ensure that no genuine Indian citizen is subjected to any harassment during the identification and deportation of foreigners in Assam.