Silchar, Assam (Cachar district): Launching a broad-based critique of the ruling party’s record, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday accused the BJP of failing to deliver on key promises while relying on divisive narratives ahead of elections.
Addressing a rally at Borkhola in Cachar district, Kharge alleged that the BJP has consistently raised the issue of illegal infiltration without taking substantial action. Targeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah, he said the issue is repeatedly highlighted during campaigns but not addressed in governance.
Kharge claimed that despite being in power for over a decade at both the Centre and in Assam, the BJP has not deported illegal migrants in significant numbers. Drawing comparisons, he stated that 88,792 illegal migrants were deported between 2005 and 2013 during the UPA government, while only 2,566 were removed between 2014 and 2019 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Congress chief also raised concerns over the 2023 delimitation exercise in Assam, alleging it was carried out to favour the BJP electorally. He claimed that demographic compositions in certain constituencies were altered, affecting representation in areas with significant Muslim, Dalit, and Adivasi populations.
Accusing the Centre of favouring corporate interests, Kharge alleged that large areas of land in Assam have been handed over for projects in the name of development. He warned that natural resources such as land, forests, water, and minerals were being “sold off.”
Turning to regional issues, Kharge said the Barak Valley has witnessed neglect over the past decade. Referring to Indira Gandhi’s earlier description of Silchar as an “Island of Peace,” he said the region now faces infrastructure challenges, economic distress, and administrative shortcomings.
He also highlighted the recurring flood crisis in Assam, stating that annual floods continue to damage homes, crops, and livelihoods, while no long-term solution has been implemented. Poor drainage systems, waterlogged roads, and traffic congestion were cited as signs of inadequate development.
On women’s reservation, Kharge alleged that the BJP delayed action on the 33 per cent reservation Bill and revived the issue only in the run-up to elections.
The Congress president further targeted Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, accusing him of corruption and misuse of power. Without naming individuals, he also referred to allegations involving multiple foreign passports and overseas assets linked to the Chief Minister’s family.
Kharge concluded by asserting that the BJP’s tenure at both the state and central levels is nearing its end, expressing confidence that voters would opt for change in the upcoming elections.
