Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday strongly criticised the Congress, accusing the party of harming Assam and the Northeast during its long years in power. He alleged that the Congress ignored the region’s development and protected infiltrators, putting security and cultural identity at risk.
The Prime Minister made these remarks while addressing a public rally in Guwahati. The event followed the inauguration of the new terminal at Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport.
Modi Defends Electoral Roll Revision
PM Modi spoke about the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. He said the exercise is meant to protect democracy by ensuring infiltrators do not enter the electoral system.
He questioned the motives of those opposing the process. “Deshdrohis opposing SIR want to shield infiltrators," the Prime Minister said. He added that the central government is taking firm action to stop infiltration.
Allegations Against Congress Rule
The Prime Minister claimed that Congress governments never focused on Assam or the Northeast. According to him, during their rule, infiltrators were allowed to settle on forest land and occupy large areas illegally.
He said this posed a serious threat to Assam’s security and cultural identity. PM Modi added that the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Assam are now fixing mistakes made over several decades.
‘Double-Engine Government’ and Development
Highlighting the BJP’s “double-engine government" model, PM Modi said development in Assam is moving smoothly. He compared the progress to the continuous flow of the Brahmaputra river.
He said coordinated governance between the Centre and the state has removed obstacles to growth.
Assam’s Role in India’s Growth
PM Modi spoke about his personal bond with Assam. He said the state continues to inspire him. He added that Assam and the Northeast are emerging as gateways to India’s overall development.
“Every state and every region has an important role to play in the mission of a developed India," he said.
Roadshow and Political Meetings
Later in the evening, the Prime Minister led a large roadshow in Guwahati on the first day of his two-day visit to Assam. The procession started near the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex in Sarusajai on National Highway 27. It ended at the BJP’s state headquarters near Basistha Chariali.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi unveiled a statue of Assam’s first Chief Minister, Gopinath Bordoloi. He also inaugurated the new airport terminal and addressed a public gathering.
After the roadshow, he chaired an important meeting with BJP’s Assam leadership. The discussion focused on preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections.