Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Assam, targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during two major election rallies in Barkhola and Nilambazar in the Barak Valley.
Beginning his address, Kharge greeted mothers, youth, farmers, workers, and media personnel, recalling how former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had once described the Barak Valley as an “island of peace” due to its natural beauty and calm environment. He, however, alleged that the region has witnessed neglect over the past decade under BJP rule.
Focusing on infrastructure concerns, Kharge pointed to the incomplete flyover in Silchar and the stalled Tarapur elevated corridor project, stating that such delays have caused daily inconvenience for residents. “Students, workers, and patients are suffering due to these failures,” he said. He also raised concerns about recurring floods in nearby areas, alleging that the government has failed to provide any long-term solution to the damage caused to homes, crops, and livelihoods.
Criticising Silchar’s drainage system and persistent traffic congestion, Kharge accused the BJP of making tall promises during elections but failing to deliver on them. He said assurances such as implementing the Assam Accord, addressing floods and erosion, and granting tribal status to certain communities remain unfulfilled.
Turning his criticism towards the Centre, Kharge alleged that PM Modi is prioritising privatisation, citing the Guwahati airport, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah continues to raise the issue of infiltrators without effective action. He claimed that despite being in power at both the Centre and in Assam for nearly a decade, the BJP has failed to deport illegal migrants.
Questioning the BJP’s narrative on nationalism, Kharge asked whether India achieved independence only after Modi became Prime Minister. He referred to the sacrifices of Congress leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, who spent years in prison, and former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, who were assassinated. He also cited Sonia Gandhi declining the Prime Minister’s post as an example of sacrifice, contrasting it with what he described as a “politics of power, wealth, and land” by the current Assam leadership.
Kharge further referred to media reports alleging multiple passports linked to the Chief Minister’s family, demanding clarity and urging voters to seek answers from those in power.
Speaking about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Kharge highlighted the Bharat Jodo Yatra, saying it reflected an effort to understand people’s issues on the ground, unlike what he described as symbolic gestures by the Prime Minister. He also criticised the delimitation process in Assam, alleging it was used to weaken the Congress by dividing minority, Dalit, and tribal populations.
Accusing the BJP of using money power to expand its influence, Kharge said the party has failed to deliver on key promises such as generating two crore jobs annually and doubling farmers’ income. He termed demonetisation ineffective and said the “double engine” government has not met public expectations.
Outlining Congress’s promises, Kharge announced five guarantees, including unconditional monthly financial assistance for women and Rs 5,000 support for business activities. He also promised health coverage of up to Rs 25 lakh per family, citing similar schemes implemented in states like Karnataka, Telangana, and Himachal Pradesh.
Additionally, he assured justice within 100 days for the family of Assamese cultural icon Zubeen Garg if the party comes to power. Other promises included converting one-time land holdings of 10 lakh indigenous people into permanent land rights, a monthly assistance of Rs 1,250 for senior citizens, and the creation of a dedicated ministry for their welfare.
