The term “Miya” in Assam refers to a socio-cultural identity associated with Bengali-origin Muslims, many of whose ancestors migrated to Assam during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Initially brought as agricultural workers by the British colonial administration, most of them settled in the riverine (char) areas of Assam.
Over time, the Miya community became an integral part of Assam’s rural economy, especially in farming and fishing. However, the term “Miya” has also been used politically and socially - sometimes in a neutral or self-identifying way, and at other times in a derogatory sense during ethnic and political tensions.
In recent years, the Miya identity has also emerged in art, poetry, and activism, with “Miya poetry” gaining attention for highlighting the struggles, discrimination, and resilience of the community. The Miya people are diverse, with cultural practices influenced by both Assamese traditions and Bengali heritage.
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Why Is The Miya Term Considered Controversial In Assam?
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