“Will not tolerate construction of mosques near Hindu religious sites” : Sarma

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s statement

Guwahati (Assam) – Tampering with Hindu religious sites and traditions in the state will not be tolerated, said Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. He strongly opposed the construction of mosques on temple land, emphasizing that such developments could threaten social harmony.

Minorities should respect the traditions and customs of the indigenous people and not try to create a conflict by building Masjids near Satras and occupying Satra land.

Dhubri, Barpeta, etc. are an example of such templates and we should not let this be repeated. pic.twitter.com/94qSPcO6j9

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) June 10, 2025

Chief Minister Sarma stated that Satras are a symbol of Assam’s cultural and spiritual identity. These institutions, associated with Eksharan Dharma (Neo-Vaishnavism) founded by Shrimant Shankardev, have a significant social and spiritual influence across the state. However, he pointed out that in recent times, there have been instances in areas like Dhubri and Barpeta where land belonging to Satras has been illegally occupied and mosques constructed there, which could lead to increased communal tension.He added, “When a mosque is constructed near a Satra, and the sound of Azaan is heard near the Namghar (prayer hall), or when beef is cooked nearby, it creates a situation that is non-negotiable.” He urged that if any such conflict arises, outsiders should withdraw to prevent further escalation. The state government, he noted, cannot single-handedly protect all 922 Satras; therefore, public cooperation is essential in safeguarding them and preserving their cultural role.

"Won’t tolerate mosques near Hindu sites like Satras!" – Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

🔸Cites illegal mosque constructions on Satra land in Dhubri & Barpeta.

🔸Calls azaan near Namghars (Prayer house) & beef near Satras non-negotiable.

(Satras are Vaishnavite monasteries in… pic.twitter.com/rP8aYC9XOH

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) June 11, 2025

What is a Satra ?

Satras are Vaishnava monasteries in Assam associated with Ekasharan Dharma or Neo-Vaishnavism; a monotheistic devotional movement initiated by saint and social reformer Shrimant Shankardev in the 15th–16th centuries.The Satra Commission, established to address issues related to Satra land, has submitted its final report to the government after visiting around 126 Satras and studying the problems faced by these institutions.