Assam Assembly Scraps Jumma Break to Boost Productivity

The Assam Assembly has scrapped the two-hour Jumma break, a move hailed by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as historic. The decision aims to enhance assembly productivity and eliminate colonial practices introduced in 1937 by the Muslim League's Syed Saadulla.

In a landmark decision, the Assam Assembly has scrapped the two-hour Jumma break traditionally observed on Fridays to facilitate prayers for Muslim legislators. This change, described by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as historic, aims to enhance the assembly's productivity.

Chief Minister Sarma took to social media platform X to comment on the decision. 'By doing away with the 2-hour Jumma break, @AssamAssembly has prioritised productivity and shed another vestige of colonial baggage,' he wrote. The practice, which was introduced by the Muslim League's Syed Saadulla in 1937, was seen by Sarma as a colonial remnant.

The Assembly officially amended the rule, deciding that its proceedings would continue without any religious adjournments. As per the new rule, the Assembly will start its sessions at 9:30 am every day, including Fridays. The amendment aims to eliminate practices that divide society on a religious basis.

(With inputs from agencies.)