AIMIM chief mocks Assam CM over ‘Miya Muslims’ remark, sparks political row
February 7, 2026: AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi launched a scathing attack on Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during an election rally in Nizamabad on Saturday. Reacting to Sarma’s controversial remarks on “Miya Muslims” in Assam, Owaisi called him a “two-rupee beggar” and theatrically waved a two-rupee coin before the cheering crowd, saying he was replying in the Assam CM’s “own language.” His comments drew loud applause from supporters at the rally.
Mocking Sarma’s alleged remarks on auto-rickshaw fares and shop prices offered by Muslims of Bengali origin, Owaisi accused him of targeting the poor. “If an auto fare is five rupees, he says give four rupees. I am giving you this alms of two rupees, tell me, will you take it?” Owaisi said, branding Sarma as “anti-poor” and “small-minded.” He added that such statements show an unhealthy obsession with the earnings of auto drivers and small traders struggling to make a living.
The controversy traces back to Sarma’s earlier comments alleging that “Miya Muslims” attract customers with low prices as part of what he termed “economic jihad.” Strongly rejecting the claim, Owaisi said he would not tolerate insults against his community and warned against divisive politics. The speech has since gone viral on social media, triggering fresh political debate ahead of elections.