Guwahati: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said the BJP-led govt’s “strong willpower” and policies had brought naxalism, terrorism and extremism nationwide to an end point and helped bring peace to Assam, driving what he called unprecedented development in the state.Addressing an election rally in Tezpur for Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) candidate Prithiraj Rabha, Singh said more than 7,500 militants in Assam had surrendered arms. AGP, a BJP ally, is contesting the Assam assembly election as part of the ruling coalition.
He said the development seen in Assam over the past five years under CM Himanta Biswa Sarma had been “magical” and praised the state government for freeing large tracts of land from encroachers.Singh also attacked the Congress, accusing it of neglecting Assam and doubting its potential. Referring to criticism of recent investment projects in the state, including the Rs 27,000 crore semiconductor plant at Jagiroad near Guwahati, he said Congress leaders had mocked the BJP’s development agenda.“When we talked of vikas after coming to power in Assam, Congress people mocked us,” Rajnath said.He specifically criticised Congress leader and Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge over earlier remarks questioning why the semiconductor industry was being set up in Assam and Gujarat, and said those comments insulted the state’s youth.“Congress, in a way, abused the talent and capabilities of the youths of Assam. Congress should not be spared in this election,” said Rajnath.On illegal immigration, Singh said the issue should not be politicised and asserted that the govt would act firmly. “I assure you, no illegal infiltrator will be able to stay in Assam,” Rajnath said.Later, addressing another rally in Dergaon in upper Assam for BJP candidate Mridul Kumar Dutta, Singh said voters have decided to return the BJP-led govt to power. He said Congress had given Assam “stepmotherly treatment” and kept the state distant from Delhi.
