Assam Assembly Abolishes Jumma Break, Streamlines Proceedings

Assam Legislative Assembly has officially removed the two-hour Jumma break, a historical practice to allow Muslim legislators to offer Friday prayers. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma lauded the move, signaling a shift towards increased productivity and shedding colonial-era customs.

In a significant move, the Assam Legislative Assembly has officially scrapped the two-hour Jumma break, historically observed to allow Muslim legislators to offer Friday prayers. This amendment was confirmed by the Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed gratitude towards the Speaker for the decision, noting it as an effort to boost productivity and shed colonial-era practices. 'By doing away with the 2-hour Jumma break, Assam Assembly has prioritized productivity and shed another vestige of colonial baggage,' Sarma stated on social media platform X.

Previously, assembly sessions on Fridays would adjourn at 11 am for the Jumma break, resuming post-lunch after legislators returned from their prayers. With the new rule, sessions will continue uninterrupted, starting at 9:30 am daily. The Rules Committee, led by Speaker Daimary, unanimously agreed to this change, highlighting its alignment with the secular ideals of the Constitution.

(With inputs from agencies.)