Assam Congress Criticizes Government Over Jal Jeevan Mission Failures
Congress Launches Campaign Against Jal Jeevan Mission Issues
Jorhat, Dec 19: In light of significant shortcomings in the Jal Jeevan Mission, Gaurav Gogoi, the president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), has strongly criticized the BJP-led administration.
During a public gathering and protest at 2 No. Dahodhiya, organized by the North West Jorhat (Dhekorgora) Block Congress Committee, Gogoi accused the government of corruption and mismanagement regarding the flagship drinking water initiative.
He pointed out that Assam is ranked second nationally for scams associated with the Jal Jeevan Mission.
“The minister overseeing the Jal Jeevan Mission is closely aligned with the Chief Minister, which has allowed corruption to thrive while the public suffers,” Gogoi claimed, emphasizing that the scheme has not fulfilled its intended benefits.
To amplify their efforts, Gogoi announced a statewide sticker campaign at sites where the Jal Jeevan Mission has not succeeded.
“We will place stickers in areas where the mission has failed, compelling both central and state authorities to conduct new inspections,” he stated.
Linking the scheme's failures to broader governance issues, Gogoi suggested that public dissatisfaction with corruption and inefficiency would be evident in the upcoming Assembly elections.
“The people of Assam are tired of an ohongkari roja (arrogant ruler). They have resolved that Himanta Biswa Sarma should not continue as Chief Minister for another decade,” he asserted.
Positioning Congress as a viable alternative, he promised that the party would serve the public if elected.
“Citizens desire a government that listens and acts on their behalf. A Congress-led administration will prioritize accountability and be people-focused,” he added.
Gogoi also addressed Sarma’s recent comments regarding the MP’s “files being opened” in connection with the SIT chargesheet in the Zubeen Garg death case, dismissing it as a political threat stemming from fear of losing.
“Such threats do not concern me. The Chief Minister is anxious because he realizes he won't regain power. He can say whatever he wishes,” he remarked.
This protest signifies Congress’ renewed effort to highlight the Jal Jeevan Mission as a pivotal electoral topic, indicating a more aggressive campaign against the state government as the Assembly elections approach.