Assam police have detained Aminul Islam, an AIUDF MLA from Dhing, under the National Security Act (NSA). The move follows his controversial remarks questioning Pakistan’s role in the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. His statements sparked a heated debate about national security and freedom of speech in India.

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Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage

During a campaign speech for the Assam panchayat elections, Aminul Islam claimed that the Pahalgam terror attack was a government conspiracy. He argued that the attack aimed to polarize people along communal lines. Islam further denied Pakistan’s involvement in the attack, which contradicted official accounts.

A video of his speech quickly circulated on social media. Many viewed his remarks as inflammatory and anti-national. Opponents accused him of spreading misinformation that could disturb public peace.

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Legal Action and NSA Detention

Initially, Assam police charged Aminul Islam with sedition. However, he secured bail on May 14, 2025. Despite the bail, the authorities detained him under the National Security Act on the same day. The police justified this step by pointing to his provocative speech and previous legal cases against him.

The NSA allows preventive detention to maintain law and order. The Nagaon Superintendent of Police filed a report citing 23 earlier cases against Islam. Officials argued that his statements threatened communal harmony and could incite violence.

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Government’s Response and Political Fallout

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma supported the arrest. He called Islam’s remarks “anti-national” and warned they could disrupt Assam’s peace. Sarma stressed the importance of strict action against those who question India’s sovereignty.

Meanwhile, the AIUDF clarified that Aminul Islam’s comments did not represent the party’s views. The party distanced itself from his statements to avoid political backlash. Still, opposition parties criticized the government, claiming it was suppressing political dissent.

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Background: The Pahalgam Terror Attack

On April 22, 2025, terrorists attacked a tourist convoy in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack killed 26 people, mostly civilians. Investigations revealed involvement by Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a Pakistan-based terrorist group. Intelligence agencies linked the attack to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

This event intensified tensions between India and Pakistan. The attack led to heightened security across Jammu and Kashmir and other states. Assam, with its sensitive communal balance, witnessed a crackdown on pro-Pakistan statements.

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Crackdown on Pro-Pakistan Sentiments in Assam

Since the attack, Assam police arrested over 50 people for making statements supporting Pakistan. Several of them face preventive detention under the NSA. The government fears such narratives may fuel communal unrest.

Aminul Islam’s detention is part of this broader effort. Officials want to send a strong message that anti-national activities will not be tolerated. However, critics argue the government risks curbing free speech and political debate.

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The Debate Over Security vs. Freedom

Aminul Islam’s case highlights a tough challenge for Indian democracy. On one hand, the state must protect national security and public order. On the other, it must safeguard freedom of expression and political rights.

Critics say the government’s response is heavy-handed. They warn that preventive detention laws like the NSA can be misused to silence opposition voices. Supporters say such laws are necessary during times of heightened security threats.

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What’s Next?

The legal process against Aminul Islam is ongoing. The courts will examine whether the NSA detention is justified. Political observers expect the case to spark wider debate on balancing security and democratic freedoms.

Meanwhile, Assam remains alert to communal tensions. The government has deployed extra forces in sensitive areas. Political parties continue to monitor the situation closely, wary of possible unrest.

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Conclusion

The detention of AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam under the NSA for his remarks on the Pahalgam terror attack has raised important questions. It puts the spotlight on India’s struggle to maintain national unity while respecting political dissent. How the government and courts handle this case could set key precedents for similar incidents in the future.