As someone from a non-Assamese background raised in Assam, where do people like us belong?
I grew up in Assam, studied Assamese, know Assamese language and culture, and my family has been here for generations. Assam feels like home to me. In some ways, I know more about Assamese culture than my own background because this is what I grew up around.
But I often see strong anger online toward Bengalis, Biharis, Marwaris, etc. with claims that these communities are harming Assam, changing demographics, taking rights, or threatening Assamese identity. I understand concerns about preserving language, culture, land, and illegal immigration. Those concerns matter.
What I’m trying to understand is how do people separate those concerns from people who were born and raised here and consider Assam their only home?
If someone’s family has lived in Assam for generations, speaks Assamese, celebrates Assamese culture, contributes to society, and genuinely loves Assam where are they supposed to belong?
I’ve seen people say things like “go back,” but back where? For many of us, Assam is the only home we know. Some people in our ancestral states wouldn’t even see us as their own either.
Also, a genuine question would removing entire communities realistically solve Assam’s biggest problems like yearly floods and river erosion, unemployment, lack of industrial growth, infrastructure and healthcare gaps, corruption, poverty in some regions, or limited opportunities for students and professionals etc. Or are these separate problems that need different solutions?
I’m not denying that some individuals cause problems. Every community has people who do. But is it fair to judge whole groups, including people who’ve spent generations here?
I’m asking because I want to understand the perspective respectfully. Not to argue!