Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Critiques Congress Ahead of Assam Elections
Sarma's Criticism of Congress
Guwahati, Jan 8: In a pointed critique of the Congress party, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has questioned its significance in Assam as the state approaches the 2026 Assembly elections. Speaking to the press in Lakhimpur following a welfare scheme event, Sarma expressed disbelief that the Congress is still viewed as a serious contender.
“It’s astonishing that after 75 years, the Congress is still taken seriously by the public and the media. What is their actual relevance today?” he remarked.
Highlighting the Congress's track record on welfare, Sarma mentioned that many women beneficiaries reported not receiving any assistance during the Congress's tenure.
“Women we speak to today say they received nothing when Congress was in charge. This clearly reveals the truth about their governance,” he stated.
Sarma further asserted that the Congress no longer represents the interests of the indigenous Assamese population.
“Who supports the Congress now? Primarily illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. Beyond that, they lack genuine backing,” he claimed.
He criticized the Opposition for their lack of presence, contrasting it with his party's active engagement when they were not in power.
“When we were in the Opposition, we were always among the people. Today’s Opposition seems absent. I don’t see them making any impact on the ground,” he noted.
In a poignant comment, Sarma expressed concern for the minority community, alleging they are victims of political manipulation.
“I feel sorry for the miyas. They are coerced into giving money and votes to the Congress, only to face eviction later. This cycle of false promises has hurt them the most,” he asserted.
Earlier, Sarma initiated several development projects in Lakhimpur, emphasizing the government's commitment to infrastructure development.
He laid the foundation for a 4 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant, costing Rs 9.90 crore, under the Swachh Bharat Mission. This facility will serve all 21 wards of Lakhimpur town, promoting effective wastewater management and enabling the reuse of treated water for public areas, thereby enhancing environmental sustainability and public health.
Additionally, he performed the Bhoomi Pujan for a new District Commissioner’s office in Lakhimpur. This multi-storey complex, to be constructed on 20 bighas at a cost of Rs 51.62 crore, aims to consolidate key government offices, improving administrative efficiency and public accessibility.
In the education sector, the Joyhing campus of the Model Residential School under North Lakhimpur University was inaugurated. Spanning 32 bighas and built at a cost exceeding Rs 30 crore, the campus includes modern classrooms, hostels, and academic facilities designed to enhance access to quality education and support comprehensive student development.
Sarma also laid the foundation for the Na-Ali–Kalita Gaon Chariali road under Asom Mala 3.0. This Rs 40.44 crore project is anticipated to enhance connectivity between Dhakuakhana, Dhemaji, and Majuli, reduce travel times, alleviate congestion in North Lakhimpur, and stimulate regional mobility and economic growth.