Prime Minister Modi Promises Development at Assam Rally Ahead of Elections
Modi's Rally in Dhemaji: A Push for BJP's Third Term
Dhemaji, April 1: As the Assam Assembly elections approach, the BJP has intensified its campaign, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a significant rally in Gogamukh, Dhemaji on Wednesday.
This event marked Modi's first public appearance in Assam since the election dates were announced. He began his speech with Assamese phrases, indicating a strong belief in achieving a 'hat-trick' victory for the BJP-led NDA in the state.
Modi confidently stated, "This time, a hat-trick is definite," emphasizing that just as this was his third visit to Dhemaji, the BJP is poised to secure a third consecutive term in power.
He referred to the BJP's recently unveiled manifesto, or Sankalp Patra, presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Guwahati, describing it as a 'clear roadmap' for Assam's future.
Among the key commitments highlighted were extensive job creation for the youth and a proposed investment of Rs 5 lakh crore in infrastructure, which is expected to create numerous employment opportunities.
Modi also mentioned that over 22 lakh families in Assam have benefited from pucca houses under central schemes, with plans to provide homes for an additional 15 lakh beneficiaries.
He announced initiatives for free education from kindergarten to postgraduate levels for underprivileged children.
Focusing on women's empowerment, Modi noted that more than three lakh women in Assam have become 'lakhpati baideo', with a goal to increase this number to 40 lakh in the next five years.
The manifesto includes plans for implementing a Uniform Civil Code and measures to protect the identity, culture, and rights of Sixth Schedule and tribal communities.
On agricultural support, Modi stated that 20 lakh farmers have received Rs 7,500 crore in assistance, promising an increase in annual support to Rs 11,000 or more for small farmers.
He also mentioned a special mission with an allocation of Rs 18,000 crore to tackle flood-related damages, a persistent issue in the region.
Highlighting the achievements of the BJP-led government, Modi pointed out the rapid infrastructure development in Assam over the last decade.
He remarked on the return of peace to the state, noting that many former militants have surrendered, and that Assam is evolving beyond its traditional identity.
"There was a time when Assam was known globally only for tea. Now, along with tea, Assam will be recognized for semiconductor chips," he stated, referring to future technological investments.
Modi Critiques Congress's Approach
While outlining development plans, Modi sharply criticized the Congress party, accusing it of engaging in divisive politics and neglecting public needs.
He claimed that Congress has historically failed to address the needs of the populace and has instead 'divided society for political gains'.
Modi referred to a proposed 'communal violence law' from the UPA era, labeling it a 'dangerous conspiracy' aimed at appeasement politics that would undermine the constitutional framework established by B R Ambedkar.
"That is why BJP opposed it in Parliament," he asserted, adding that similar discussions are resurfacing among Congress leaders in Assam.
He further accused Congress of permitting illegal immigration into the state, which he claimed has negatively impacted indigenous communities.
"Congress wants to protect foreigners and turn locals into a minority," he alleged, while affirming that the BJP government is dedicated to removing illegal encroachers and preserving Assamese identity.
Modi also took a jab at Congress leadership, suggesting that the party's 'prince sitting in Delhi' is heading towards a 'century of defeats'.
In closing, Modi urged voters to provide a decisive mandate for the BJP-led NDA, promising accelerated development in the years to come.
"This is Modi’s guarantee," he concluded, encouraging voters to surpass previous turnout records on polling day, April 9.