Assam CM Welcomes Jharkhand Counterpart Amid Election Campaigns
A Warm Welcome and Political Insights
CM Sarma tries his hand at the drum as Rupjyoti Kurmi (left) aligns the mic. (Photo:@himantabiswa/X)
Guwahati/Biswanath, Apr 4: On Saturday, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma extended a warm welcome to his counterpart from Jharkhand, Hemant Soren, highlighting the impressive development in Assam, especially in tea-growing regions.
During a press interaction while campaigning in Upper Assam, Sarma stated, “I invite Hemant Soren to visit Assam. He will witness the significant advancements made here over the years, particularly in the tea garden areas.”
Criticizing the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) government, Sarma suggested that Soren could learn from Assam's developmental strategies.
“We have established better roads, improved infrastructure, and targeted welfare initiatives. Jharkhand is falling behind, and Soren can take cues from Assam’s success,” he remarked.
Sarma's comments coincided with Soren's campaign for Tiharu Gaur, the JMM and Jai Bharat Party candidate for the 70 No. Biswanath Assembly constituency.
Addressing a crowd of 13,000 at the Dhuli Tea Estate, Soren shared his experiences visiting local homes and understanding the challenges faced by residents.
Jharkhand CM Soren addresses a gathering at Dhuli Tea Estate as Tiharu Gaur looks on. (AT Photo)
“I visited a tea worker's home and was struck by their living conditions. They lack electricity and basic furniture,” he stated, also accusing the BJP of being “power thieves.”
“Since the BJP took office in 2016, citizens have had to queue for essential services,” he added.
Recently, during his visit, Hemant Soren expressed optimism that the tea tribe communities, a crucial voter demographic, might shift their allegiance to the JMM and its partners.
The tea garden electorate plays a vital role in Assam's elections, and Soren's campaign aims to strengthen ties with this group.
Reports indicate that various Adivasi student organizations and related groups have pledged support to the JMM candidate, hinting at a shift in grassroots political dynamics. The BJP, which previously enjoyed support from these factions, is now facing dissatisfaction over unresolved issues.
The JMM has nominated 21 candidates for the upcoming 126-member Assam Assembly elections.