For the first time in nearly 90 years, the Assam Assembly has done away with its long-standing tradition of a two-hour break on Fridays to allow Muslim legislators to offer namaz. The change, implemented during the ongoing budget session, has triggered strong reactions from opposition parties.
The decision to discontinue the practice was taken last August by the Rules Committee of the House, led by the Speaker. However, it has only now come into effect, marking a significant shift in the Assembly’s functioning.
Opposition leaders have expressed discontent, arguing that the move disregards the religious needs of Muslim MLAs. Many legislators from the Congress and AIUDF had to leave the House during important discussions to fulfill their prayer obligations.
