The Assembly’s rules committee passed a resolution to continue business on Fridays as on other days, citing the secular nature of the Constitution.
Previously, the Assembly adjourned at 11 a.m. on Fridays for Muslim legislators to attend namaz, with proceedings resuming in the afternoon. This unique practice was introduced by Muslim League leader Syed Saadulla in 1937.
However, Speaker Biswajit Daimary proposed the change to align the Assembly’s schedule with other days, emphasizing productivity and the secular principles of the Constitution. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma supported the move, describing it as shedding “colonial baggage.”
The decision has sparked criticism from opposition members. AIUDF MLA Rafikul Islam expressed concerns about the impact on discussions if important bills are debated during the former break time.
His party colleague, Mujibur Rehman, accused the government of attempting to create divisions between communities. Congress MLA Jakir Hussain Sikdar criticized the lack of broader consultation on the decision.
In contrast, BJP MLA Taranga Gogoi welcomed the change, arguing that the Assembly should not have special rules for one community and suggesting that those who need to offer namaz could use a separate room.
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