Synopsis
In a groundbreaking decision during the Budget session, the Assam Assembly has ended the longstanding practice of allowing a two-hour break for Muslim MLAs to perform namaz on Fridays, prioritizing legislative productivity and secularism.Key Takeaways
- Assam Assembly discontinues Friday namaz break.
- Decision made during current Budget session.
- AIUDF MLA expressed concerns over the ruling.
- Opposition leader suggests nearby arrangements for prayers.
- Change aligns with the Constitution's secular values.
Guwahati, Feb 22 (NationPress) In a historic move during the current Budget session, the Assam Assembly has discontinued its long-standing practice of taking a two-hour break on Fridays to enable Muslim lawmakers to perform namaz.
This decision, which was first proposed in the House's recent session in August of the previous year, took effect during this sitting.
AIUDF MLA Rafiqul Islam voiced his discontent over the ruling, claiming it was enforced solely due to the numerical strength of certain members.
The assembly comprises approximately 30 Muslim MLAs. Islam suggested that the BJP is imposing this change because of their majority.
In response, Debabrata Saikia, the opposition leader, proposed that provisions could be arranged for Muslim MLAs to perform their Friday prayers in the vicinity.
“Several of my party colleagues and AIUDF MLAs missed important discussions while attending namaz today. I believe adjustments can be made for this special prayer requirement on Fridays,” Saikia remarked.
In August of the prior year, the Speaker-led Rules Committee resolved to put an end to this nearly 90-year-old tradition.
The committee unanimously endorsed Speaker Biswajit Daimary's suggestion to conduct Assam Legislative Assembly sessions on Fridays without interruption, aligning with the Constitution’s secular framework.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma supported the change, noting that the break was established by the Muslim League's Syed Saadulla in 1937, and its discontinuation aims to enhance productivity while discarding remnants of colonial practices.
The Assam Assembly traditionally convenes at 9:30 a.m. from Monday to Thursday and at 9 a.m. on Fridays, allowing for a two-hour break for namaz.
However, with this revision, the Assembly will now commence at 9:30 a.m. daily.
