Assam CM advises avoiding fish allegedly produced using urea by 'Miya Muslims' due to health concerns

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed on Sep 4 that the state has seen an increase in kidney diseases over the last four years, attributing this rise to the consumption of fish farmed in Nagaon and Morigaon.

He alleged that producers in these districts have been using urea and a specific type of waste sourced from Guwahati in their farming practices.

"There are various organic ways to increase production of fish. It will not work if they continue adopting shortcuts for fish production," he said.

Though the Assam CM made no specific mention of religion or caste, his words appear to refer to the backlash against "Miyas" in Assam.

The name "Miya" is frequently used derogatorily to denote immigrant Muslims from Bangladesh, who dominate the fish industry in Nagaon and Morigaon.

Sarma’s statements come amid heightened tensions following the gang rape of a class 10 student on Aug 22 by three youths from the minority community in Nagaon.

In response, fish producers in these districts imposed a "fish blockade," halting supplies to upper Assam after ethnic groups in four districts demanded that immigrants leave.

"I have told the people of upper Assam that it is good if they (Nagaon and Morigaon) do not send fish. Take this opportunity and grab the market, not through conflicts, but by producing fish that are fit for health," he said.

Fish is a crucial element of the diet and culture in Assam. The state needs approximately 40,000 metric tons of fish each month, with more than 98% of this demand fulfilled by local production.

Morigaon, Nagaon, and Cachar are the leading fish-producing regions in the state. Additionally, Assam sources fish from other states such as Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Bihar.