Assam MLA arrested for 'defending' Pakistan after Pahalgam terror attack

Assam MLA Aminul Islam Arrested for Sedition Over Controversial Remarks on Pahalgam Terror Attack

In a significant political development, Assam Police on Thursday arrested Aminul Islam, a sitting Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the opposition All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), on charges of sedition. The arrest was made in connection with Islam’s alleged defense of Pakistan and comments perceived as sympathetic to terrorists, following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that left 26 civilians dead.

Aminul Islam, a three-time legislator representing the Dhing constituency in Nagaon district, was taken into custody from his residence after a video of his controversial remarks went viral on social media. In the video, Islam was reportedly seen making statements that were considered "very wrong" and offensive in light of the terror attack, according to Superintendent of Police (SP) Swapnaneel Deka.

The police registered a case against Islam under several sections of the newly implemented Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 152, 196, 197(1), 113(3), 352, and 353. These charges pertain to promoting enmity, spreading misleading information, and making instigating remarks that could disturb public order. The police clarified that Islam’s statements were seen as an attempt to justify or normalize terrorism, prompting legal action. He is scheduled to be produced before the court on Friday.

Reacting to the development, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took a strong stance, stating in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that defending or attempting to justify terrorism does not fall under the purview of free speech. “Those who attempt to justify, normalise, or dilute the brutal murder of innocent civilians are not exercising freedom of expression—they are standing against the soul of India,” Sarma asserted. He added that he had directed the police to take strict action and ensure that the case reaches its logical conclusion.

In a show of support for the victims of the terror attack, the Chief Minister also announced a compensation of ₹5 lakh each to the families of the deceased. He emphasized the state government's commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and holding those who spread divisive narratives accountable.

The AIUDF, meanwhile, has distanced itself from Islam’s remarks. Party president Badruddin Ajmal condemned the statements made by the MLA, labeling them as "unfortunate" and clarified that they were his personal views, not representative of the party. “This is a time to stand united with the government and the people. Terrorists have no religion. Such actions only malign the name of Islam,” Ajmal said in a statement to the press. He reiterated that the AIUDF strongly condemns the Pahalgam attack and supports all efforts to combat terrorism.

The incident has sparked widespread political debate and raised questions about the responsibilities of public representatives, especially during sensitive national crises. The legal proceedings in this case are expected to draw further public and political attention in the coming days.