Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched a scathing attack on the Congress, accusing the party of being “allergic to Assam’s growth and recognition,”
while asserting that the northeastern state has emerged as one of the fastest-developing regions in the country. Addressing multiple gatherings in Guwahati, including a grand cultural programme showcasing the traditional Bodo Bagurumba dance, the Prime Minister said Assam’s progress is no longer isolated but has become an integral part of India’s overall growth story. Modi alleged that the Congress has historically opposed key milestones in Assam’s development. Citing examples, he said the party had objected to conferring the Bharat Ratna on cultural icon Dr Bhupen Hazarika and had resisted the establishment of a semiconductor industry in the state, reflecting what he termed a mindset hostile to Assam’s advancement. “Assam today stands among the fastest-developing states in the country. Its development is strengthening India’s growth journey,” Modi said, crediting the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in the state for major strides in infrastructure, industry and connectivity. The Prime Minister praised Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s leadership, stating that the present government is “cleansing the sins of the Congress era” by reconnecting both people and regions that had remained neglected for decades. He alleged that previous Congress governments had deliberately kept areas such as Bodoland isolated from the mainstream. Referring to land-related actions by the state government, Modi claimed that large tracts encroached upon by “lakhs of infiltrators” were being cleared, accusing the Congress of earlier encouraging illegal infiltration for vote-bank politics. “Congress ensured infiltration and instability, while we are ensuring development, security and dignity,” he said. Highlighting the Bodo Peace Accord, the Prime Minister described it as a historic turning point that ended years of violence and unrest, paving the way for peace, education and development. “The sound of gunshots in Assam has been replaced by the sound of musical instruments,” he remarked. Modi also lauded the massive ‘Bagurumba Dwhou’ performance by thousands of artistes, calling it a powerful symbol of respect for the Bodo community and its rich cultural heritage. Reiterating the Centre’s commitment to Assam, the Prime Minister said peace, cultural pride and development are now moving forward together in the state. He asserted that the ongoing growth trajectory would continue to benefit tribal communities, youth and all sections of society, positioning Assam as a key pillar in India’s development narrative.
