Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday launched a strong political offensive during multiple election rallies across Assam, sharply criticising the Indian National Congress and reiterating the BJP’s commitment to eliminate illegal infiltration from the state.
Addressing rallies in Hailakandi and Patharkandi on the final day of campaigning for the April 9 Assembly elections, Shah urged voters to support the Bharatiya Janata Party for a third consecutive term. He emphasised that the election was not about electing individuals like Himanta Biswa Sarma, but about empowering the BJP to take decisive action against infiltrators.
Shah claimed that illegal immigrants in Assam have already been identified and asserted that the next phase would involve their systematic deportation. He added that infiltration, which he described as a major threat to livelihoods, identity, and security, would be completely halted if BJP governments are formed not only in Assam but also in neighbouring states like West Bengal and Tripura.
Taking a sharp dig at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Shah accused the opposition party of indulging in vote-bank politics and allowing Assam to become a “gateway for infiltration.” He alleged that during Congress rule, several districts became heavily affected by illegal immigration and claimed that the party continues to rely on such voters for political gains.
Highlighting policy differences, Shah defended key initiatives like the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and proposed implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), stating that these measures are aimed at ensuring justice and equality. He criticised Congress for opposing these reforms and accused it of misleading the public.
The Home Minister also outlined development promises made by the BJP, including infrastructure expansion, flood control measures through construction of large water reservoirs, establishment of institutions like AIIMS in Barak Valley, and financial assistance schemes for women and tea garden workers. He noted that eviction drives have already freed thousands of acres of government and forest land from alleged illegal occupation.
Referring to peace and security, Shah stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, around 11,000 insurgents have laid down arms and joined the mainstream, while multiple peace accords have contributed to stability in the Northeast.
He also accused Congress of weakening legal frameworks in the past, citing the repeal of the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act, 1950, and introduction of the Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunals) Act, 1983, which he claimed were designed to protect infiltrators.
Shah concluded by urging voters to press the BJP’s lotus symbol with determination, stating that strong public support would ensure the removal of infiltrators and continued development in Assam. Polling for all 126 Assembly constituencies will be held on April 9, with counting scheduled for May 4.