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Terror Crackdown: Himanta Biswa Sarma says Assam arrests 3 more Pakistan sympathisers | WATCH

May 12, 2025, 12:34 am

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Saturday that the state is continuing its firm action against Pakistan sympathisers, as part of India’s broader anti-terror crackdown. The latest update confirms the arrest of three more individuals by district police forces.

Arrests in multiple districts

The arrests took place in different districts of Assam. Here are the details:

Ajim was arrested by Karbi Anglong Police
Hasinur was arrested by Dhubri Police
Abdul was arrested by Lakhimpur Police

These individuals are believed to have expressed support for Pakistan or shown connections to anti-national activities.

53 in jail so far

With these latest arrests, the number of individuals jailed for sympathising with Pakistan has risen to 53, according to the official update posted at 22:30 hrs on May 11.

While India has eliminated over 100 Pak terrorists, Assam continues to crackdown on their sympathisers. #Update @ 22.30hrs|11 May

1️⃣Ajim arrested by @karbianglongpol

2️⃣ Hasinur arrested by @Dhubri_Police

3️⃣Abdul arrested by @lakhimpurpolice

53 traitors are in JAIL.

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) May 11, 2025

National anti-terror efforts continue

The announcement comes in the context of India’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism. Reports suggest that over 100 Pakistan-based terrorists have been eliminated by Indian forces recently. Assam’s crackdown is part of the state’s effort to curb internal threats and support the national fight against terrorism.

“MP’s Minor Children No Longer Citizens of India” Himanta Biswa Sarma’s Controversial Tweet

May 1, 2025, 9:31 pm

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has stirred a fresh political controversy after he tweeted a cryptic message on Thursday, claiming that the minor children of a Member of Parliament from Assam are “no longer citizens of India.” While Sarma did not explicitly name the MP, political observers and opposition leaders believe the statement is aimed at Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, who represents the Kaliabor constituency.

Assam CM Sarma’s Post Triggers Reactions

“I say this with full responsibility the minor children of one Member of Parliament from Assam are no longer citizens of India. But this is just the beginning. There is much more yet to be revealed,” Sarma posted on X (formerly Twitter), triggering a flurry of reactions.

I say this with full responsibility — the minor children of one Member of Parliament from Assam are no longer citizens of India. But this is just the beginning. There is much more yet to be revealed.

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) May 1, 2025

The tweet, cryptic but full of suggestion, is at a politically delicate moment. With the Lok Sabha elections around the corner, Assam’s parties have intensified their campaigns, and Sarma’s remarks are being interpreted as an effort to place the opposition above all, the Congress on the back foot.

Congress Defends Gaurav Gogoi

Sources in the BJP say that the tweet is one of the efforts to bring the Congress leadership’s “commitment to Indian values” into question. However, opposition leaders have criticized the action as a “cheap diversionary tactic” and “character assassination.”

Gaurav Gogoi, the son of former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, has as yet not reacted to the tweet publicly. Congress leaders in Assam have defended him, calling for the CM to either identify the MP and produce evidence or retract the statement.

APCC President Slams Assam CM’s Remarks

“Making such a serious allegation without naming anyone or producing evidence is unbecoming of a chief minister,” said Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Bhupen Borah. “This is a classic attempt to malign reputations for political gain.”

Experts in law have clarified that according to Indian law, children can enjoy dual citizenship but only in a limited number of circumstances, and the government must give a sufficient reason if the citizenship has been renounced or revoked.

With speculation building, everyone waits with bated breath for the next step from either party. Sarma’s tweet assures that “much more is yet to be revealed,” which implies that further revelations or accusations might be on the cards in the days to come.

Bengal violence Mamata government’s fault

April 15, 2025, 1:55 am

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made a very valid point when he posted on X that in spite of having a higher percentage of Muslim population than Bengal’s, his state saw barely any protests over the passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill in Parliament. This was in context of the violence unleashed by the radicalised members of the minority community over the majority population in Bengal’s Murshidabad district, where the so-called majority, the Hindus are actually in a minority. Things are so bad in the violence-torn areas that the local Hindu population has started fleeing to neighbouring districts, with open threats being issued against them by the marauding mobs. Some of the slogans are eerily similar to those issued by the jihadis to the Kashmiri Pandit community before they fled the Valley in 1990. The question is if Assam can control the situation, why cannot Bengal? The answer, sadly, is simple: it is because the Chief Minister and her administration are either inefficient, or unwilling to control the situation, or both. The serious charge that the BJP is hurling at Mamata Banerjee is that the anti-Waqf violence has her blessings. Even if that is not the case, she is anyway being belligerent and claiming that an Act passed by Indian Parliament will not be implemented in Bengal—it is as if she is the potentate of her own kingdom. In fact, one of her ministers, who is at the forefront of the Waqf protests, Siddiqullah Chowdhury, went to the extent of claiming that the Chief Minister was happy that members of the Muslim community had gathered in such large numbers to protest against the amended Waqf Act. Meanwhile, trouble started in the interiors of Murshidabad district, with mayhem unleashed on Hindus. But the administration did nothing about it. It was only intervention by the Calcutta High Court that led to the deployment of Central forces in the violence hit areas, bringing the situation under control. With the state failing to do its duty, it is being alleged that the violence suits the interests of the Trinmaool Congress, for it diverts attention from one the biggest jobs scams that the country has seen, where 26,000 teachers have lost their jobs because of corruption by the ruling party in the hiring process. With the teachers’ protest getting relegated to the background, it is but natural that questions will arise on the role the state played in the violence getting out of hand.

The larger point is about the radicalisation of a particular community, and the attendant muscle flexing, with open calls being given for conversion—convert or die. Nightmarish situations like this exist in Pakistan and Bangladesh. That this can take place in West Bengal, a mainstream Indian state, is a matter of concern. In fact, there is no justification for this in a secular country. Every Muslim is treated equally as every Hindu by the Indian state. There is no state-mandated discrimination against them, unlike in Muslim countries, where minorities are often treated as second class citizens. So where is the angst coming from? Obviously, it is a case of brainwashing by painting pictures of imagined horrors. What is anti-Muslim about the Waqf Amendment Bill/Act? It is actually about streamlining the administrative process to close the loopholes that make the usurpation of Waqf properties easy. The amended Act has support from many Muslim individuals and groups. But, from all accounts, in Bengal at least the amended Waqf Act has been identified as an attempt to obliterate Muslim identity and existence. But then this suits the state’s ruling party, for it enables it to paint itself as the only saviour of the community, in the face of a supposedly “communal” BJP. Hence, even if Muslims are angry with Mamata’s party—which many of them are, with the rampant corruption and lawlessness on the ground—they do not have any option but to band together behind the Trinamool. Appeasement too has been another tool in the arsenal of Bengal’s political parties—the Left, the TMC and the Congress—to keep the Muslim community happy. It is well known that Mamata Banerjee has prioritised this community over Hindus in more occasions that one. Hence, today, when they turn around and say that Mamata Banerjee is in power because of them, and would dare not take any action against them, it is case of her appeasement policy coming back to haunt her. In the process, it is increasingly looking like that Mamata Banerjee is losing control of the ground to criminals, who run their writ in their respective areas of influence, where even the state apparatus bends to them. This was seen with the now jailed muscleman Sheikh Shajahan during the Sandeshkhali case. Then there is the problem of infiltration from Bangladesh, which is changing the demography of Bengal’s border areas, with the full backing of local politicians. Given the radicalisation that has resurfaced in Bangladesh with the rise of Muhammad Yunus and his band of Jamaatis, the possibility of jihadi elements coming into India to cause trouble has increased manifold. It would not be wrong to say that Bengal is sitting on a powder keg. The present violence is a curtain raiser to what may come if the situation is not brought under control. Worse, the situation in Bengal might endanger the whole country. Mamata Banerjee may be ruling West Bengal, but she cannot treat the state as her personal fiefdom, with zero accountability. She cannot be allowed to play politics with the security of the country.

Assam Transformed from Disturbed to Most Peaceful State: CM Himanta at Advantage Assam 2.0

February 25, 2025, 12:38 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025 in Guwahati, stressing innovation and green development in the state. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma welcomed the Prime Minister at the inaugural session.

#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi felicitated at the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit in Guwahati. pic.twitter.com/T1LH2D3JVd

— ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2025

During the event, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma credited PM Modi’s leadership for transforming Assam. He declared, “With the blessings of PM Modi, we had first started Advantage Assam on 3rd and 4th February, 2018…The Prime Minister has just announced a Green Field Fertilizer Plan in our name in the budget of the GoI, which will be 12 lakh metric tonnes…After 2014, Assam was reborn…Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Assam became a peaceful state. Today I can confidently say that the state which was once the most disturbed state of the country has now become the most peaceful state of the country…”

#WATCH | At Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit in Guwahati, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma says “With the blessings of PM Modi, we had first started Advantage Assam on 3rd and 4th February, 2018…The Prime Minister has just announced a Green Field Fertilizer… pic.twitter.com/2F6GLm6NLi

— ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2025

PM Modi visited exhibitions of various investment opportunities in Assam a day before the summit. On X, he posted glimpses of the exhibitions, saying, “Went to the exhibitions of Advantage Assam, showcasing the wide range of investment opportunities in the state. Here are some glimpses.”

Went to the exhibitions of Advantage Assam, showcasing the wide range of investment opportunities in the state. Here are some glimpses. pic.twitter.com/I3OWDyFaVY

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 24, 2025

Senior Leaders and Business Magnates Attend

Union Ministers S Jaishankar, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Sarbananda Sonowal, and Pabitra Margherita were present at the summit, with Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari speaking virtually.

Top business leaders like N Chandrasekaran, Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, Sajjan Jindal, Prashant Ruia, Anil Agarwal, and Anil Kumar Chalamalasetty attended, along with senior-level delegations from Australia, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, Bhutan, and Japan.

Global Outreach and Roadshows

For a successful summit, the Government of Assam held investment roadshows in major Indian cities and abroad in the UK, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Bhutan, and UAE. The Chief Minister, Sarma, led missions to Bhutan, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore to lure foreign investors.

The summit has 20 thematic sessions, bringing together industry leaders, experts, and government representatives to discuss opportunities for growth. To attract more investors, the Assam Cabinet sanctioned amendments to the state’s biotechnology and textile and apparel policies.

Cultural Highlights: PM Modi Attends Jhumoir Binandini Programme

On the night of the summit, PM Modi was present at the Jhumoir Binandini programme in Guwahati, a cultural extravaganza of Assam’s tea tribes. In appreciation, he tweeted on X, “experience that touched the soul.”

Every moment of Jhumoir Binandini was pure magic! This was an experience that touched the soul.

As we celebrate 200 years of Assam Tea, this programme beautifully merges history, culture and emotion.

The culture of the tea tribes, their spirit and their deep connection to the… pic.twitter.com/7BxtdNyCqB

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 24, 2025

With international investors, business tycoons, and policymakers flocking to Guwahati, Advantage Assam 2.0 will open up new economic possibilities, making the state a prime investment destination in India’s growth narrative.

Maha Kumbh: Himanta Biswa Takes Holy Dip at Triveni Sangam | Watch

February 21, 2025, 4:31 pm

Assam Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the divine confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh along with his family during the Maha Kumbh 2025. Himanta Biswa can be seen taking the holy dip with his wife, daughter, and son.

VIDEO | Maha Kumbh 2025: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa), along with his family, take holy dip at Triveni Sangam.

(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvqRQz) pic.twitter.com/bsWdFrrqgO

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 21, 2025

Prominent leaders of the country have gone to Prayagraj and taken the holy dip during the auspicious Maha Kumbh 2025, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu.

Famous Celebrities have also been spotted taking holy dips at Prayagraj. Juhi Chawla, Siddharth Nigam, Rajkummar Rao, and Anupam Kher are some of them.

The Maha Kumbh is the largest spiritual gathering of the decade happening in Prayagraj. Thousands of devotees from all over the world are walking miles just to get a glimpse of the Triveni Sangam.

It commenced on January 13, 2025, with the Paush Purnima Snan and will conclude on February 26, with Maha Shivratri. The gathering has attracted more than 55 crore devotees and still counting. The streets of Prayagraj are bustling with lively music and the divine spirit pervades the air. Ash-smeared Aghoris and Naga Sadhus who came from far lands have made themselves home. The small city of Prayagraj has given home to thousands of tourists and devotees.

Himanta Biswa Sarma Meets Singapore President to Boost Ties

February 12, 2025, 12:09 am

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met Singapore President H.E. Tharman Shanmugaratnam to discuss Assam’s role in advancing the Indo-Singapore Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He acknowledged Singapore’s support for Advantage Assam 2.0, a major investment and infrastructure summit set for February 2025.

Meetings with Key Singaporean Leaders

CM Sarma also met Singapore’s Foreign Minister H.E. Vivian Balakrishnan to explore collaboration in trade, infrastructure, and India’s Act East Policy. The discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral partnerships for Assam’s growth.

Engagements with Semiconductor Companies

During his visit, the Chief Minister held discussions with leaders from eight semiconductor firms:

ASMPT
AEM
Besi
Temasek
Silicon Box
Nitto Denko Corp
Heller Industries
Meinhardt Group

He invited them to explore investment opportunities in Assam’s upcoming Electronic City in Jagiroad, a key initiative for developing the semiconductor ecosystem in the region.

Infrastructure Development with Surbana Jurong

CM Sarma met Low Cher Ek, CEO of Surbana Jurong’s Township vertical, to discuss ongoing projects and future collaborations for building smart cities and industrial townships in Assam.

Advancing Skill Development

The Chief Minister visited ITE Education Services and interacted with CEO Suresh Natarajan. He explored their aerospace, smart manufacturing, and electronic labs that provide industry-specific skills. He also expressed interest in collaborating between Assam Skill University and ITE to establish a World Skill Centre in Assam.

CM Sarma praised ITE’s courses in Applied & Health Sciences, Business, Engineering, ICT, Hospitality, and Media, recognizing their potential for Assam’s youth.

Promoting ‘Advantage Assam 2.0’

The Chief Minister’s Singapore visit aims to attract global investors for Advantage Assam 2.0 – Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025, scheduled for February 25-26 in Guwahati. His discussions with business leaders and policymakers align with Assam’s vision for industrial and economic growth.

Dibrugarh Named Second Capital, Assam’s New Political Move ?

January 27, 2025, 11:54 am

Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unfurled the National Flag at Khanikar Parade Ground in Dibrugarh on the 76th Republic Day, marking the first time that state-level Republic Day celebrations have taken place in the historic city in eastern Assam.

“Today is an important day in Dibrugarh’s journey to become the second capital of Assam. For the first time, state celebrations are taking place in this historical city,” he said.

Dibrugarh to Become Assam’s Second Capital

In a significant announcement, the Chief Minister declared that Assam would develop Dibrugarh as its second capital within three years. Furthermore, Sarma confirmed that starting in 2027, the Assam assembly will hold one session annually in Dibrugarh. In addition, the construction of a permanent assembly building on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra will begin on January 25, 2026.

“Dibrugarh will be the second capital of Assam in the next three years. From January 25 next year, the construction work for a permanent building of the Assam assembly will begin. In the next three years, Dibrugarh will become an important city in India,” Sarma stated.

Our announcement to upgrade Dibrugarh as a full fledged city and transform it as Assam’s second capital is backed by solid ground work to ensure Ease of Living and connectivity.

Laid foundation stones of 4 flyovers spanning 4.4km worth ₹377cr in the city a while back. pic.twitter.com/5ctUsK5VIf

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) January 26, 2025

The government will establish a Raj Bhavan in Tezpur that would make it the cultural capital and a secretariat in Silchar to bridge the gap between Barak Valley and Guwahati. “Silchar will have a secretariat and chief secretary’s office, thereby bridging the gap between Barak Valley and Guwahati,” he added.
Massive Infrastructure Push in Dibrugarh

Marking a milestone in urban development, Sarma laid the foundation stones of four major flyovers in Dibrugarh. These four flyovers, with a total length of 4.4 km, have an estimated cost of Rs 377 crore. Moreover, they aim to boost urban mobility and connectivity.

He said that these developments aim to enhance the Ease of Living through detailed planning. “Our announcement to upgrade Dibrugarh as a full-fledged city and transform it as Assam’s second capital is well grounded in ensuring Ease of Living and connectivity,” he declared in a post on X.

Promise made. Promise delivered.

Tweeting this from Dibrugarh where I will unfurl the Tiranga in a short while from now. ?? https://t.co/FcZkEEhvtv

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) January 26, 2025

Dibrugarh: From Conflict to Progress

Reflecting on the transformation of the city, Sarma said, “Once curfewed and boycotted, Dibrugarh today proudly stands as the center of Republic Day celebrations in Assam. This is a remarkable journey that reflects the strength of the world’s greatest Republic Bharat,” he posted.
Assam’s Global Outreach

The development comes in the wake of Sarma’s recent two-nation tour to Japan as part of the Advantage Assam Roadshow. During the visit, he interacted with the industry leaders for investments. Sarma met Takeshi Okubo of Tokyo Electron, inviting the semiconductor leader to expand its base in Assam’s Electronic City. He also had talks with Yoshiaki Asakura, Vice President of Yokogawa Electric Corporation, urging the company to enhance its operations in Assam’s energy sector.

Additionally, Sarma discussed opportunities for Assamese youth with Japan’s Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Akiko Ikuina, underscoring the government’s commitment to creating global opportunities.

Political Aspects of Announcement

Strengthening Political Influence in Upper Assam

Dibrugarh is an important political and economic center in Upper Assam. The ruling party, under Himanta Biswa Sarma, may want to consolidate its political support in this region by developing it as the second capital. It would strengthen the party’s influence in areas that have been less developed compared to the central and western parts of Assam, thus securing broader regional backing ahead of future elections.

Boosting Regional Politics and Support

The move may aim to appease political constituencies in Upper Assam, where people have always perceived themselves as sidelined in terms of administrative importance. As a result, this may appeal to the electorate and local leaders in the region, encouraging them to support the Chief Minister a little more. Consequently, it could strengthen the Chief Minister’s position in the state’s diverse political landscape.

Symbolic Assertion of Development and Progress

By announcing the building of a second capital in Dibrugarh, the government is signaling its commitment to a more inclusive and progressive vision for Assam. This, therefore, might be a politically motivated move to position the state as modern and forward-thinking, catering to the aspirations of people from various regions, especially in the face of opposition from regional parties.

The state’s urbanization scheme, moreover, includes Tezpur and Silchar along with Dibrugarh. Last year, Chief Minister Sarma had officially launched the first CM secretariat outside Guwahati in Dibrugarh town as a starting point for the city’s strategic position in the state’s development plan.

Assam Police Cracks Down on Child Marriage: 416 Arrested

December 22, 2024, 11:19 am

Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that 416 people were arrested in the third phase of a crackdown on child marriage. This operation began on the night of December 21-22.

Details of the Crackdown

In this latest phase, police registered 335 cases. The arrested individuals will appear in court on Sunday. Sarma posted on social media, stating, “Assam continues its fight against child marriage. In Phase 3 operations launched on the night of Dec 21-22, 416 arrests were made and 335 cases registered. The arrested individuals will be produced in court today. We will continue to take bold steps to end this social evil.”

#Assam continues its fight against child marriage.

In Phase 3 operations launched on the night of Dec 21-22, 416 arrests were made and 335 cases registered.
The arrested individuals will be produced in court today.

We will continue to take bold steps to end this social evil!…

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) December 22, 2024

Previous Phases of the Operation

This crackdown follows two earlier phases in 2023. Initially, in February, 3,483 people were arrested, and 4,515 cases were filed. Later, in October, 915 people were arrested, and 710 cases were registered. Clearly, the government has intensified its efforts over the course of the year.

Chief Minister’s Stance on Child Marriage

Earlier this year, Sarma faced criticism for repealing the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act of 1935. Some opposition leaders suggested amending the law to prevent its use in child marriages. However, Sarma rejected these suggestions, emphasizing, “No one would be allowed to play with the lives of Muslim boys and girls. I am politically challenging that before 2026, I will stop this. Isn’t the Congress ashamed that the party is standing in favour of getting 6–8-year-old boys and girls married?”

Opposition Criticism

Meanwhile, the AIUDF and Congress pushed for amendments to the law, arguing that it should not be used for child marriages. Despite this, Sarma has vowed to end child marriage in Assam, emphasizing that the practice would not continue under his leadership. Thus, his stance on the issue remains firm, as he continues to push for strong actions against child marriage in the state.

Himanta Biswa Sarma Raises Concerns Over Muslim Population Growth in Jharkhand

October 28, 2024, 5:58 pm

Himanta Biswa Sarma, the BJP’s co-in-charge for the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections, made controversial remarks on Monday regarding the changing demographics in the state. He alleged that the Muslim population is on the rise while the tribal population is declining, attributing this shift to infiltration.

In a statement to ANI, Sarma emphasized his concerns, saying, “I ignited fire against infiltrators. Lord Hanuman had also set fire in Lanka. We have to set fire against infiltrators and make Jharkhand a golden land.” He claimed that the increase in the Muslim population in the Santhal Pargana region raises questions about its origins, stating, “If families are not giving birth to so many children, then definitely people are coming from outside. This is simple mathematics.”

Commitment to Implement NRC in Santhal Pargana

Sarma further declared the BJP’s intention to implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the Santhal Pargana division if elected. He referenced a recent internal letter from the Jharkhand government, alleging that intruders were receiving training at madrasas and obtaining Aadhaar cards, which he claims supports his assertions about infiltration.

He concluded his comments by expressing confidence that the BJP would secure victory in the upcoming elections, stating, “We will win the elections, but that is not the main priority; it is to throw out infiltrators from Santhal Pargana and ensure justice for women.”

Voting for the Jharkhand assembly elections is scheduled to take place in two phases on November 13 and November 20. In the previous assembly election, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha won 30 seats, the BJP secured 25, and Congress won 16 seats.

Champai Soren Meets Amit Shah in Delhi, Set to Join BJP on August 30

August 27, 2024, 3:42 pm

In a significant political shift for Jharkhand, Champai Soren, a senior leader of the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and a former chief minister, is preparing to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), according to sources familiar with the matter.

Champai met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday night in New Delhi. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who is co-incharge of the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections, was also present at the meeting. These elections are scheduled to take place in November-December.

Official Announcement by Assam CM Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma

Assam CM Sarma announced that Champai Soren would officially join the BJP on August 30 in Ranchi. Sarma confirmed this in a social media post, stating, “Former Chief Minister of Jharkhand and a distinguished Adivasi leader of our country, @ChampaiSoren Ji met Hon’ble Union Home Minister @AmitShah Ji a short while ago. He will officially join the @BJP4India on 30th August in Ranchi.”

Hints of Political Shift

Sarma had previously hinted at the political switch, revealing to reporters in Ranchi that he had been in contact with Champai for months, though not for political reasons at first. He added, “I want Champai Soren to join BJP. Now that he is in Delhi… let’s see… I feel now the time has come for having some political talks with him.”

Despite Champai’s decision to switch allegiances, he remains a minister in Hemant Soren’s cabinet and has yet to formally resign from both the JMM and his position in the government.

Champai’s Discontent with JMM Leadership

Champai Soren, who served as Jharkhand’s chief minister for a brief five months in 2005, recently voiced his dissatisfaction with his party. On August 20, he expressed his disappointment on social media, revealing that he felt sidelined by the JMM leadership. He claimed that he was removed from his chief ministerial position without prior notice, and many of his planned events were canceled without informing him.

After returning to Seraikela from Delhi on August 23, Champai began touring the assembly constituencies of Kharsawan, Chaibasa, and Seraikela in the Kolhan division, a region where he has a strong influence.

Champai Soren, a six-time MLA, has represented the Seraikela constituency since 1991, initially winning as an Independent in 1995. His shift to the BJP is expected to have considerable implications in the upcoming assembly elections, particularly in the Kolhan division.

Himanta Biswa Sarma Slams National Conference Manifesto As Anti-India, Pro-Pakistan

August 25, 2024, 3:14 pm

After the Congress and National Conference announced their alliance for the upcoming Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma criticised the National Conference manifesto on Saturday. He described it as “anti-India and a pro-Pakistani document,” noting that the manifesto explicitly supports engaging in constructive dialogue with Pakistan.

“National Conference manifesto, first they have said that they will restore Article 370 and Article 35 A of the Constitution of India. National Conference manifesto has clearly said that they are for constructive dialogue with Pakistan. They have also said that they want to have trade with Pakistan and those who were involved in the stone pelting and various heinous crimes against the civilians and Police, will be taken back to the government service. The National Conference manifesto has also said that they will withhold or they will discontinue the reservation given to the Dalits, Gujars, Bakarwals and Pahari communities. They have also said that they will continue to patronise directly or indirectly, the separatist voices. So under these circumstances, if Congress joined hands with the National Conference, it is presumed that Congress has endorsed the National Conference manifesto and it is nothing but an anti-India document. It is a pro-Pakistani document. It is a document of a few fundamentalists,” Sarma said.

He added that Congress is opposed to India’s interests and will persist in their stance against the nation’s well-being.

“They are undermining the heroic sacrifice of our armed forces. I think Congress stands exposed today. Congress was against the interests of India. They are against the interests of India and they will continue to be against the interests of this great nation,” he added.

In their election manifesto, the PDP pledged to work towards restoring Articles 370 and 35A, pursue diplomatic initiatives between India and Pakistan, and ensure the respectful return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley.

According to the manifesto, PDP “is resolute in its pursuit of restoring the constitutional guarantees that were unjustly scrapped and is committed to restoring Jammu & Kashmir to its original status, ensuring that the voices of its people are heard and their rights are safeguarded.”

The party also promised to advocate “diplomatic initiatives between India and Pakistan, emphasising conflict resolution, confidence-building measures, and regional cooperation” and the establishment of “full connectivity across the LoC for trade and social exchange.”

According to the Election Commission of India, polling in Jammu and Kashmir will take place in three phases on September 18, September 25, and October 1. Vote counting is scheduled for October 4. These will be the first Assembly elections in Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370.

Assam CM Accuses Meghalaya University of Conspiring Against State’s Education

August 12, 2024, 9:53 pm

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday accused the Meghalaya University of Science and Technology (USTM) of conspiring to undermine Assam’s education system. Defending his previous comments about the university, Sarma drew parallels with former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi’s assertion that Jorabat was responsible for Guwahati’s recurring floods.

Sarma claimed the Congress party, including Tarun Gogoi’s son Gaurav Gogoi, had criticized him for mentioning USTM. Questioning the geographical factors contributing to floods, he asked why the hills sloped towards Guwahati instead of Meghalaya, calling it a “flood jihad.”

The Chief Minister alleged a larger conspiracy to weaken Assam’s education system. This follows his Friday statement accusing USTM of waging a “flood jihad” by removing hills to build structures, contributing to Guwahati’s waterlogging.

Sarma shared satellite images on X, showing deforestation around USTM in Meghalaya’s Greater Jorabat Hills. He linked this to recent flash floods in Guwahati and pledged to collaborate with the Meghalaya government to protect shared habitats.

Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi criticized Sarma on X, calling his statements “nonsense” and a cover-up for failures and scams.

On August 7, Sarma had blamed USTM for exacerbating Guwahati’s flooding due to its construction on a hill. He announced plans to discuss the issue with the Meghalaya Chief Minister.

Sarma Announces Life Imprisonment Law, New Domicile Policy for Assam

August 4, 2024, 8:10 pm

In a recent BJP meeting, Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted upcoming legislative changes, including a new law to address ‘love jihad,’ which would mandate life imprisonment for such offenses.

Sarma, a key BJP leader in the North East, also revealed plans for a new domicile policy in Assam, restricting government jobs to those born in the state. He emphasized that the Assam government has prioritized indigenous people in filling the one lakh government jobs as promised during the elections.

Additionally, Sarma announced a new regulation on land transactions involving Hindus and Muslims, requiring approval from the chief minister for such deals.

He reaffirmed his commitment to introducing a uniform civil code in Assam. Last month, Sarma visited Jharkhand and alleged that ‘Bangladeshi infiltrators’ were illegally occupying tribal land in Gaibathan village. He claimed that despite a court order to return the land to the Adivasi family, the administration had not acted, and the family faced attacks when they attempted to build on their property.

Sarma has frequently voiced concerns about demographic changes in Assam and other regions, predicting that the 2021 census will reveal significant shifts in Eastern India’s demographics. He attributes these changes to “demographic invasion” and appeasement policies, which he believes have hindered efforts to address the issue.

Historically Speaking: Who Will Steer India Forward? The Contenders You Need to Know

August 3, 2024, 4:11 pm

Dr. Aishwariya Pandit Sharma and Priya Sehgal, on their YouTube channel “Historically Speaking,” explore the leading candidates, their backgrounds, and what sets them apart in the race to lead India. The channel, known for its engaging discussions on politics and art, delves into the intersections of history, politics, and culture through interviews and analyses. It also explores how art reflects and shapes societal understanding.

In the book “The Contenders,” the author shares insights into why the title was chosen. With the help of Aishwarya and Karthik, they identified true contenders in politics. Published in 2019, the book focuses on leaders in their mid-40s to early 50s, highlighting their potential to lead India.

Watch:

The Contenders

Key political figures discussed include Akhilesh Yadav, who, unlike other dynasts, had to fight for his legacy against his father, Mulayam Singh Yadav. This struggle led to significant modernization efforts within his party. The book also examines Yogi Adityanath’s tenure as Chief Minister, marked by strict law and order reforms and a strong Hindutva stance.

Himanta Biswa Sarma’s political journey from Congress to becoming the Chief Minister of Assam under BJP is highlighted, emphasizing his insider knowledge and ambition. The Gandhi siblings, Rahul and Priyanka, are analyzed for their contrasting political styles, with Priyanka’s instinctive approach and Rahul’s calculated strategies.

Arvind Kejriwal’s shift from a strong national contender to focusing on Delhi amid legal troubles is also discussed. The book provides a comprehensive understanding of the evolving political landscape in India through meticulous research and personal insights.

Assam Chief Minister Raises Alarms Over Shifting Demographics

July 17, 2024, 3:19 pm

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has voiced serious apprehensions regarding what he perceives as a substantial demographic transformation in the state. In an interview with ANI, Sarma highlighted a significant increase in the Muslim population in Assam, rising from 12% in 1951 to approximately 40% currently. He emphasized the profound implications of this demographic shift on district dynamics and societal balance.

Sarma stressed that this issue extends beyond political considerations, characterizing it as a critical “matter of life and death.” His comments come amid ongoing discussions about communal tensions and electoral dynamics in the region, reflecting deep-seated concerns about the evolving demographic landscape of Assam.

Assam Floods: 8 More People Lose Their Lives, Death Toll Reaches 66 In Past 24 Hours

July 8, 2024, 10:53 am

In the past 24 hours, the situation in the northeastern state of Assam continues to be critical, as 8 more people lose their lives including three children to flood waters.

As a result, the death toll now stands at 66. According to ASDMA flood report, 2 people respectively died in Dhubri and Nalbari district. One casualty each from Cachar, Goalpara, Dhemaji, Sivasagar district died on sunday.

Overall, few districts of the state continued to be affected by flood situation. Around 22.74 lakh people from 28 districts are still impacted by the deluge.

These floods impacted districts include Kamrup, Nagaon, Cachar, Dhubri, Goalpara, Morigaon, Hailakandi, Bongaigaon, South Salmara, Dibrugarh, Karimganj, Lakhimpur, Hojai, Nalbari, Charaideo, Biswanath, Golaghat, Jorhat, Dhemaji, Barpeta, Sonitpur, Kokrajhar, Majuli, Kamrup (M), Darrang, Sivasagar, Chirang and Tinsukia.

Around 3446 villages under 97 revenue circles continued to remain submerged and these flood waters in their wake have submerged 68432.75 hectares of crop area.

Besides humans, even animals are affected, as 1563426 animals are impacted by the floods.

On Sunday, around 214 animals have been washed away. Even infrastructure has been gravely affected. These flood waters have damaged 172 roads, 6 bridges and 8 embankments since the last 24 hours. Around 300 houses have been impacted by the flood disaster.

So far, the water level of Brahmaputra River is still above danger level at Neamatighat, Tezpur, and Dhubri. But in Guwahati, the river’s water level has decreased.

Actions Taken By Administration?

Currently, the rescue teams, which consists of NDRF, SDRF, Fire & Emergency Services along with local establishment are conducting rescue operations in many flood-hit areas.

In order to examine the impact of floods and oversee the relief distribution, the Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma visited the relief camps in Kamrup.

In addition, he also met people from Palashbari and decided to give them new houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).

26 Casualties Reported, 1.61 lakh People Impacted Due To Floods In Assam

June 19, 2024, 10:54 am

The flood situation in northeastern state of Assam remains critical, affecting 1.61 lakh people across 15 districts, with approximately 26 reported casualties so far.

As per Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) report, one person lost his life, after drowning in floods in Hailakandi district on Tuesday.

The situation in Karimganj district has deteriorated, as 1.52 lakh individuals, including 41,711 children, have been impacted.

Around, 225 villages under Nilambazar, RK Nagar, Karimganj, and Badarpur revenue circles have been affected in Karimganj district.

Currently, 22,464 flood-affected individuals are seeking shelter in relief camps and distribution centers established by the district administration.

According to ASDMA flood report, around 470 villages under 28 revenue circles in Fifteen districts affected by floods have seen floodwaters submerge 1378.64 hectares of crop area across 11 of those districts.

On June 15, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma convened a meeting with civil and police administrations along with Kaziranga authorities to ensure the safety of animals at Kaziranga National Park, especially during floods.

The CM directed also the officials to implement necessary measures and enhance the response system.

Later, he also announced the deployment of three new commando battalions at Kaziranga. Whose task is to prevent accidents involving animals crossing the national highway and to deter poachers taking advantage of the flood situation to harm wildlife.

Additionally, he also mentioned that approximately 600 personnel from a new forest battalion would be deployed at Kaziranga National Park during the flood season.

Pema Khandu Sworn In For Historic Third Term As Arunachal Pradesh CM

June 13, 2024, 12:15 pm

BJP leader Pema Khandu was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh for a third consecutive term on Thursday. The swearing-in ceremony, held at DK State Convention Centre in Itanagar, was attended by Union Ministers Amit Shah, JP Nadda, Kiren Rijiju, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Khandu, who first became Chief Minister in 2016, was re-elected as the leader of the BJP Legislature Party in Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday, setting the stage for his third term. The invitation to form the government came from Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lieutenant General KT Parnaik (retd.).

In the recent elections, which were held simultaneously with the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP secured 46 out of 60 seats in the Arunachal Pradesh assembly. Notably, the party won ten seats unopposed before the elections took place.

Assam’s CM Biswa Sarma Announces ‘Nijut Moina’ Scheme’: Empowering Girls

June 12, 2024, 3:30 pm

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on June 12 a new initiative aimed at preventing early marriage among girl students and encouraging them to pursue higher education. The ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme will provide monthly stipends to girl students from class 11 through postgraduate studies.

Scheme Details

The ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme offers financial incentives to girls who enroll in higher education institutions:

Classes 11 and 12: Rs 1,000 per month
Undergraduate courses: Rs 1,250 per month
Postgraduate courses: Rs 2,500 per month

The stipends will be transferred directly to the students’ bank accounts on the 11th of every month, reducing economic hardships and easing the financial burden on their families. This initiative aims to increase the enrollment ratio of girls in higher education institutions and promote their educational attainment.

Impact on Early Marriage

Chief Minister Sarma emphasized that the primary goal of the ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme is to delay marriages among girl students, enabling them to become financially independent. The scheme is expected to require an annual expenditure of approximately Rs 300-350 crore, potentially rising to Rs 1,500 crore per year as the number of beneficiaries increases.

Government’s Commitment

The Assam government has approved the scheme, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the education of girls in the state. The Chief Minister noted that the scheme will build on the success of a previous initiative that provided scooters to girls who achieved first-division marks, which resulted in an increase in the number of girls achieving high academic results.

Eligibility Criteria

The scheme will cover most girl students, with some exceptions:

Excludes daughters of ministers, MLAs, and MPs
Excludes students studying in private colleges
Applies to girls from class 11 to post-graduation, with stipends provided for 10 months each year (excluding June and July)

Preventing Child Marriage

Sarma highlighted that preventing child marriage is a key objective of the scheme. Married girls will not be eligible for the stipend, except those already enrolled in postgraduate courses. The scheme aims to increase the gross enrollment ratio of girls in higher education substantially.

The ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme represents a significant step by the Assam government to support and empower girl students, ensuring they have the financial means to continue their education and delay marriage, ultimately leading to greater opportunities and economic independence for women in the state.

Madrassa Reforms To Women Empowerment: Milestones Achieved By Himanta Biswa Sarma’s Government In Three Years

May 10, 2024, 1:50 pm

The Assam government led by Chief Minister Himanta has completed a term of three years in the state. The Assam CM reflected on the journey since assuming office on May 10, 2021. Expressing gratitude to the people of Assam for their unwavering support, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the state’s residents.

“On this day in 2021, I was blessed by the people of Assam to serve them in a different capacity and I committed to fulfil their aspirations. As my Govt completes 3 years today, I promise to keep working tirelessly to make Assam one of the Top 5 States of Bharat,” the Assam CM posted on X.

Here are some of the major developments led by the Assam government in the last three years.

War on Drugs

The strongest steps taken by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and CM Himanta Biswa Sarma have curved drug menace in the State to the maximum level. As a result, over 9,500 drug smugglers and peddlers have been put behind bars in the last two and a half years.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on stated that 2023 was the most successful year for the state in terms of anti-drugs operations.
The chief minister said drugs worth Rs 718 crore were seized over 4,700 arrests were made during the period.

Employment

Assam government has already provided jobs close to one lakh unemployed youths of the state. Besides the one lakh appointments, the Assam CM has also assured his government will provide 50,000 additional jobs. One of the biggest highlights of the government is the transparent and fair process through which thousands of youths have been awarded jobs.

Orunodoi: Women empowerment

Under ‘Orunodoi’, monetary benefits have been envisaged for more than 24 lac poor households in the state. The schematic benefit has been enhanced from 830/- to Rs. 1240/ Women. They will receive the amount on the first day of every month, starting from October 2020. Women being the primary caretakers of the family are kept as beneficiaries of the scheme. ‘Orunodoi’ scheme will provide Financial Assistance of Rs. 1000 per month through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme to around 19.10 Lakh Families in the state.

Assamese Cultural Renaissance

The Assam Government has tried to tell the story of Assam predominately in three major aspects so far. The first story has been of Lachit Borphukon, the second story is of Charaideo Maidans and the third through Bihu.

The Assam Chief Minister gave a clarion call to the people to write on Lachit Borphukon on a dedicated website. The massive exercise led to the Guiness World Record for Largest Online Photo album of handwritten notes on Lachit Borphukon. At the initiative of CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Centre sent a proposal to UNESCO to recognize Charaideo Maidam of the Ahom kingdom as a World Heritage Site. Further, Guinness World Records for the “largest Bihu dance in a single venue” with over 11,000 participants on April 14 with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance has already made the folk dance even more popular worlwide.

Child Marriage and Polygamy

The Assam CM announced his intention to introduce strong legislation aimed at banning polygamy and implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Further, a rampant drive against Child Marriage was carried on in the state that led to a total of 3,907 people – 3,319 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act – were arrested when the drive against child marriage was launched in the first drive. Later, the Assam police arrested 1,039 people during the second drive against child marriage.

Madrassa Reforms

Assam government converted 1,281 government and provincialised Madrasas across 31 districts in his state into general schools under the state board. Sarma declared that his government had closed over 600 Madrasas and intends to close all Madrasas because he preferred educational institutions over Islamic institutions. Further, the curriculum of the privately run Madrassas was streamlined into a modern-day syllabus.

Peace Accords

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Assam government and the pro-talks faction of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) signed a memorandum of settlement. Home Minister Amit Shah said the “tripartite settlement is significant for Assam’s peace” and the government had achieved success in eliminating all the violent groups in the State.

Along with the ULFA, other groups have also been rehabilitated to the mainstream. Further, grants of Rs. 2 lakhs each to 181 ex-cadres of the National Liberation Front of Bodoland (NLFB) were distributed on October 20, 2023, to enable them to reintegrate into society.

In 2023, there have been no civilians killed due to insurgency-related cases.

Relief to Microfinance Loanees

Govt of Assam had signed MoUs with 38 Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs) and Banks to provide relief to microfinance loan borrowers as per the Assam Microfinance Incentive & Relief Scheme (AMIRS). All borrowers of loans amounting up to Rs 1.25 lakh are eligible for benefits and incentives. The State Government has approved Rs 2,000 crore for release in the first phase – an incentive of Rs 25,000 to be provided to each of around 11 lakh prompt-paying borrowers of microfinance loans.

Boundary disputes settlement

Based on the recommendations of the 12 Regional Committees between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, an MoU has been signed by the two Chief Ministers in New Delhi in the presence of the Union Home Minister on 20th of April 2023.

A path-breaking move was made between Meghalaya and Assam CM to resolve the contentious boundary issues by setting up 3 Regional Committees concerning the first 6 areas of difference out of the 12 areas of difference, headed by Ministers of both the States to engage with local people and community organization. Based on the recommendations of these 3 Regional Committees, an MoU has been signed by the two Chief Ministers in New Delhi in the presence of the Union Home Minister.

PM Modi to travel Assam for two day visit on March 8 ; to launch several projects

March 7, 2024, 11:09 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for various development projects in Assam during his two-day visit to the state, including a significant Rs 3,992 crore pipeline project from Barauni to Guwahati, as announced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive on Friday and will spend two hours in the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve.

Sarma, while addressing a press conference on Thursday said that the PM will arrive in the state on Friday evening and is scheduled to spend at least two hours in the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve.

According to the Assam CM, PM Modi will inaugurate the Tinsukia Medical College and lay the foundation stone for the Sivasagar Medical College under the PM-DIVINE scheme. He will also initiate the expansion of Digboi Refinery and Guwahati Refinery, along with the aforementioned pipeline project.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister will address a rally at Meleng Meteli, inaugurating various projects of both the central and state governments. PM Modi is also expected to perform the ‘Griha Pravesh’ ceremony for 5.5 lakh houses built under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), lay the foundation stone of Sivasagar Medical College, and address a public gathering at Meleng Meteli Pothar in Jorhat.

Due to PM Modi’s visit to Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, the jeep safari and elephant ride will be closed in the Kaziranga range of Kohora from March 7 to 9.

Assam Cabinet approves repeal of Act as effort to stop Muslim child marriage

February 24, 2024, 12:31 pm

The Assam Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has sanctioned the repeal of the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorces Registration Act, 1935, with the objective of curbing child marriages.

The Chief Minister Sarma underscored that the existing Act permitted the registration of marriages involving individuals below the legally mandated ages of 18 and 21 for brides and grooms, respectively. The repeal of this legislation is deemed a significant measure in preventing child marriages within the state.

As part of the process, district commissioners and registrars will take charge of registration records from the 94 Muslim Marriage Registrars, overseeing the procedure under the Assam Inspector General of Registration.

Additionally, Muslim Marriage Registrars are slated to receive a one-time compensation of Rs two lakh to aid their rehabilitation post the Act’s repeal.

The decision to annul the Act was reached during a late-night cabinet meeting, recognizing it as an antiquated pre-independence legislation pertinent to the erstwhile province of Assam.

The Act’s current status, which does not mandate the registration of marriages and divorces, has resulted in an informal registration process, leaving room for potential non-compliance with established norms.

Notably, the Act’s provisions permit the registration of marriages involving individuals below 21 and 18 years for men and women, respectively, without adequate monitoring. Chief Minister Sarma had previously indicated plans to introduce a legislative proposal aimed at ending polygamy.

An expert committee submitted a report on the legislative viability of such a move, receiving 150 suggestions regarding the proposed Bill. The state government’s intensified efforts against child marriages in the past year revealed instances of elderly men entering into multiple marriages, particularly with young girls from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

In two separate phases in the previous year, the government made numerous arrests and registered cases against individuals involved in child marriages. Sarma reiterated the state’s support for the Muslim Marriage Registrars (UCC) and emphasized its capacity to address polygamy, subject to the President’s approval.

Mallikarjun Kharge writes to Amit Shah regarding security concerns faced by Rahul Gandhi in Assam

January 24, 2024, 12:10 pm

Regarding the security concerns Congress MP Rahul Gandhi is facing in Assam, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has written a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Security concerns raised during the previous few days at the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Assam were also covered in Kharge’s letter, which was sent on Tuesday night. In his letter to Amit Shah, Kharge stated that on January 18, 2024, Day 1 of the Yatra’s entry into Assam, miscreants connected to the BJP were discovered destroying and destroying posters and hoardings of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra (BJNY) in Lakhimpur District, while on Day 2, the Assam Police was found guarding the BJP posters in Sibsagar district’s Amguri, rather than ensuring the Yatra’s safe passage.

“On the 21st of January, 2024 as the Yatra returned to Assam via Arunachal Pradesh, another outrageous attack occurred on the Yatra in Sonitpur district. The local Superintendent of Police in Sonitpur District happens to be the brother of Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma. He watched to see that BJP workers attacked and manhandled the Indian National Congress’ social media team, along with our General Secretary, Jairam Ramesh. Jairam Ramesh’s car was attacked while miscreants were shouting anti-BJNY slogans, tearing off the BJNY sticker on the vehicle, and attempting to throw water on the passengers inside,” further read the letter.

“On the same day in Sonitpur district, the BJP’s district party workers approached and blocked Rahul Gandhi’s convoy. The BJP’s workers then physically assaulted Assam Pradesh Congress Committee President Bhupen Borah, resulting in him bleeding profusely,” it added.
The letter further mentioned that on the next evening, BJP workers blocked Rahul Gandhi’s convoy, coming extremely close to him and creating an extremely unsafe situation in Nagaon district.

FIR filed against Rahul Gandhi, others for alleged damage to public property in Assam

January 24, 2024, 8:30 am

An FIR has been lodged against Rahul Gandhi, a Congress leader, along with several others, including KC Venugopal and Kanhaiya Kumar, for causing damage to public property during the Nyay Yatra in Assam, as reported by the state Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma. Addressing the situation, Chief Minister Sarma declared, “With reference to wanton acts of violence, provocation, damage to public property, and assault on police personnel today by Cong members, a FIR has been registered against Rahul Gandhi, KC Venugopal, Kanhaiya Kumar, and other individuals under section 120(B)143/147/188/283/353/332/333/427 IPC R/W Sec. 3 of PDPP Act.”

With reference to wanton acts of violence, provocation , damage to public property and assault on police personnel today by Cong members , a FIR has been registered against Rahul Gandhi, KC Venugopal , Kanhaiya Kumar and other individuals under section…

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) January 23, 2024

Earlier in the day, a confrontation unfolded between the police and Congress workers in Guwahati, Assam, during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Rahul Gandhi, the Congress MP, encountered hindrances while attempting to enter Guwahati during the yatra, prompting protests from party members who broke barricades and voiced slogans. Speaking to his supporters on the outskirts of the city, Rahul Gandhi affirmed, “We have broken barricades, but will not break the law.”

Continuing to underscore the party’s resilience, he stated, “You should not think we are weak. We have broken the barricades. They have canceled my program at the university. My program was canceled, but the students heard me outside. We will defeat the BJP in Assam and form the Congress government soon.” Gandhi expressed solidarity with the police officers, recognizing their efforts and highlighting the party’s opposition to the Chief Minister.

To thwart the Congress workers, the police resorted to force, erecting barricades at two locations to prevent the Yatra from entering the city limits. Earlier, Gandhi received an enthusiastic welcome as he endeavored to enter Guwahati and addressed university students en route. Despite facing challenges, the Yatra, which returned to Assam for its final leg, is anticipated to traverse the outskirts of Guwahati until Thursday.

Ashok Gehlot criticises Assam CM, expressing worries over public safety

January 19, 2024, 11:56 am

In the wake of Congress’s assertion that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Assam government is impeding its ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra,’ which commenced in the state earlier this week, Ashok Gehlot, Congress leader and former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, directed his criticism towards Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Gehlot emphasized that Sarma, being not just a BJP leader but also the Chief Minister, bears the responsibility of ensuring the safety of every citizen.

The Congress has accused the BJP-led Assam government of creating obstacles for its Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, initiated in the state on Thursday. Gehlot, in an interview with ANI, commented on Rahul Gandhi’s yatra, stating, “Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ is being welcomed across the country. He is trying to ensure justice for everyone, whether social or economic.” Gehlot expressed concerns about rising inflation, unemployment, and the widening wealth gap, highlighting them as significant issues. He noted that the BJP is apprehensive about Gandhi’s yatra.

Further addressing the situation, Gehlot pointed out, “Himanta Biswa Sarmaji is not just a BJP leader; he is a Chief Minister too. It is his responsibility to ensure the safety of every citizen and every person visiting the state, no matter which party they belong to.”

Jairam Ramesh, Congress General Secretary in Charge of Communications, asserted during a press conference that the Assam government, under Himanta Biswa Sarma, is actively working to thwart the success of the Bharat Jodo Yatra. Despite the alleged hurdles, he expressed confidence that various sections of Assam, including youth and women, will pay heed to Rahul Gandhi’s message.

Upon entering Assam, Rahul Gandhi criticized Himanta’s government, labeling it perhaps the “most corrupt government” in India. He accused the ruling BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of spreading hatred and embezzling public funds. Gandhi pledged to address the issues of Assam during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.

However, on an earlier occasion, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma refuted claims by several Congress leaders regarding scheduling conflicts with the yatra. He clarified that the state government had set the dates for distributing forms for a new scheme before being aware of Rahul Gandhi’s visit. Sarma canceled his pre-planned events to avoid clashes with Congress programs during the yatra in specific districts.

The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, which commenced from Thoubal in Manipur on January 14, is set to cover over 6,700 kilometers across 110 districts in a span of 67 days.

Centre inks peace accord with ULFA

December 30, 2023, 12:53 am

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) pro-talks faction of time-bound implementation of the agreement that was signed on Friday here in the national capital.

“This is a new start of a period of peace for the whole Northeast especially Assam. I want to assure ULFA representatives that with the faith you have kept in Government of India, from the side of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), a programme will be made in a time-bound manner to fulfil everything, without you asking for it. Under MHA, a committee will be formed, which will work with the Assam government to fulfil this agreement,” said Shah, after the tripartite agreement signed between the ULFA, Centre, and the Assam government.

A 29-member delegation of the ULFA’s pro-talks delegation, including 16 ULFA members and 13 from civil society, signed the agreement.
A peace dialogue between the Central government and a faction of the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) which has been on for over a decade now comes to a close today after the signing of the agreement this evening here in the national capital in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The tripartite agreement signed between the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA)’s pro-talks faction, the Centre and the Assam government will bring lasting peace in the state, asserted Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

“This is a historic day for Assam. The process for peace has been on in Assam under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Home Minister Amit Shah. We did accord with Bodo, Karbi, and Adivasi insurgents,” Sarma said here in the national capital, as the agreement was signed.
“This agreement will fulfil many of the aspirations of the people of Assam. In general, PM Modi’s outreach towards Assam and other parts of the northeast has made this possible,” Sarma added.
Sarma assured that the points mentioned in the tripartite agreement will be 100 per cent implemented by the Centre and the State government.

The insurgent group ULFA came into being in April 1979 in the aftermath of an agitation against undocumented immigrants from Bangladesh (erstwhile East Pakistan). The illegal influx in Assam has been on, though with varying degrees, ever since India’s independence.
Locals in Assam feared a massive change in demography, which may pose a threat to their culture, land, and other political rights.

ULFA was split into two factions in 2011 when the pro-talk faction led by Arabinda Rajkhowa decided to return to Assam from “abroad” and participate in peace talks while the other group ULFA (Independent), led by its commander Paresh Barua, was opposed to negotiations unless the ‘sovereignty’ clause was discussed upon.
Arabinda Rajkhowa-led faction gave up violence and agreed to unconditional talks with the government. Anup Chetia, another top ULFA functionary, later joined the pro-talks group a couple of years after.

In 2011, ULFA submitted a 12-point charter of demands to the government which includes constitutional and political arrangements and reforms, protection of the identity and material resources of the local indigenous population of Assam, which has since been under discussion at various levels.
The Union government in April sent it a draft agreement.
A series of talks with officials concerned in the Central government has taken place since the delegation arrived in Delhi before the signing of the peace pact.

The Union government has signed peace deals with rebel Bodo, Dimasa, Karbi, and Adivasi outfits in Assam over the last three years. The banned ULFA-Independent led by Paresh Baruah would be the only major insurgent outfit in the state once the deal with the ULFA pro-talks faction is inked.
Since Himanta Biswa Sarma became chief minister in May 2021, over 7,000 insurgents from various rebel groups have shelved their guns to join the mainstream.
The state government has been running various rehabilitation programmes to accommodate these former insurgents to live a respectable life.

Himanta Biswa Sarma has on various occasions since becoming the chief minister appealed to ULFA (I) leader Paresh Baruah to return to the mainstream and join the massive development process that has taken place in the state. CM Sarma also emphasised the need to resolve all the outstanding issues through dialogue.
Assam has witnessed decades-long insurgency, necessitating operations from the central paramilitary and Armed forces. The most prominent operations against ULFA were Operation Bajrang and Operation Rhino.

The insurgency in Assam led to the loss of lives of civilians, personnel of armed forces, state police personnel, and of course the members of insurgents. Over the past decades, an estimated 10,000 have died in Assam due to insurgency, the chief minister said today.
Due to the insurgency activities, the Disturbed Areas Act and Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) had to be brought in Assam in 1980. However, now it is just limited to a few districts in Upper Assam with about 15 per cent land mass.

Assam to build 1,000-km high-speed economic corridor costing Rs 3,000 cr

October 10, 2023, 4:05 pm

The Assam government approved the construction of a 1,000 km “High-Speed Economic Corridor” road project at its weekly cabinet meeting for a price tag of Rs 3,000 crore. This proposed high-speed economic corridor will fall under the “Asom Mala” project, according to the announcement of the decisions made in the cabinet meeting held on Monday and presided over by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Assam Tourism Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah. The state cabinet also gave its approval for the judicial guest house to be built in Kaziranga.

“7 Bigha, 2 Katha, 10 Lessa of land at Halowagaon revenue village under Kaziranga Mouza of Bokakhat revenue circle to be allotted for construction of Judicial Guest House in Kaziranga. The proposed Guest House will boost the tourism sector and provide top-class hospitality to state guests and guests of Gauhati High Court in Kaziranga National Park,” Jayanta Malla Baruah said.
The state cabinet also approved to completion of construction of a new office building under the Commissioner of Taxes with an additional estimate of Rs 11.91 crore for additional works approved. Re-validation of the administrative approval has been issued for Rs 100.61 crore up to March 31, 2024.

Assam CM’s ‘moon’ jibe at Congress on media boycott row

September 16, 2023, 3:29 pm

Himanta Biswa Sarma, chief minister of Assam, called the opposition bloc’s intention to boycott 14 news presenters “childish,” saying the move was not new and could be traced back to the Emergency era. Sarma has warned that if the Congress party wins power, the media will be restricted.

“This boycott and media censorship can be traced back to 1975. It is not new. It is a rehearsal for you. For any reason, if the Congress government comes to power, the media will get censored,” he told reporters in Jabalpur.

While slamming the Congress Party, he further said that “But ISRO has made the Chandrayaan at the right time. I will send the entire Congress party to the moon, to form government there…This is childish.”

The 28-party bloc’s media subgroup announced a boycott of 14 news anchors for alleged bias in their coverage of the opposition and hate speech. This practically means that INDIA will not send representatives to their concerts or invite them to any coalition political activities.

According to BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra, the opposition alliance has targeted every institution in the country, raising the question of whether the list of anchors is more of a “target list” or “hit list” aimed at hitting them with FIRs.

The Congress, on the other hand, insisted that the opposition had not boycotted anyone and had instead resolved not to cooperate with those who foment hatred in society. Pawan Khera, Congress’s media and publicity chief, labeled it a “non-cooperation movement,” adding that they may reconsider their decision if the identified news anchors reverse their decision.

“We have not banned, boycotted or blacklisted anyone. This is a non-cooperation movement, we will not cooperate with anyone spreading hatred in the society…They are not our enemies. Nothing is permanent, if tomorrow they realise that what they were doing is not good for India, we will again start attending their shows,” Khera told reporters in Hyderabad.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa’s wife got ₹10 crore govt subsidy?

September 13, 2023, 7:55 pm

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma refuted the Congress’ charge that his wife’s company received a 10 crore subsidy from the government on Wednesday, claiming that neither his wife Riniki nor her company ever received a subsidy from the government.

For those unware of the situation, Assam Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi shared a document and said, “PM Modi launched the Kisan sampada scheme to double the income of the farmers of India.”

“But in Assam, chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma used his influence to help his wife’s firm get ₹10 crore as part of credit-linked subsidy. Are Central government schemes meant to enrich BJP?” Gogoi further added.

PM Modi launched the Kisan Sampada scheme to double the income of farmers of India. But in Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma used his influence to help his wife’s firm get Rs 10 crore as part of credit linked subsidy. Are Central government schemes meant to enrich BJP ? pic.twitter.com/ITqzrBCe4c

— Gaurav Gogoi (@GauravGogoiAsm) September 13, 2023

Replying to these accusations CM Biswa said, “I would like to clarify that neither my wife nor the company she is associated with has ever received any financial subsidies from the Government of India.”

I would like to clarify that neither my wife nor the company she is associated with has ever received any financial subsidies from the Government of India https://t.co/oqGG21nEp6

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) September 13, 2023

As the Congress presented documents to back up its claim, Gogoi stated that the chief minister should notify the Centre if the website is hacked. “The Ministry of Food Processing website clearly shows the person’s name and the company with which she is associated. The Rs 10 crore government grant has also been approved. Please report to the Union Minister if their website has been hacked,” Gogoi wrote on Twitter.

The Ministry of Food Processing website clearly shows the name of the person and the company she is associated with. The Rs 10 crore government grant has also been approved. Please report to the Union Minister if their website has been hacked. https://t.co/INLdu603Kh

— Gaurav Gogoi (@GauravGogoiAsm) September 13, 2023

“For the convenience of the Hon’ble Chief Minister I am attaching the link to the website of the Ministry of Food Processing. It shows the list of companies and promoters who have received the ₹10 crore government subsidy. Please see serial 10,” Gogoi wrote. The document enlists Riniki Bhuyan Sharma’s Pride East Entertainment Private Limited as one of the agro-processing cluster projects under APC Scheme.

For the convenience of the Hon’ble Chief Minister I am attaching the link to the website of the Ministry of Food Processing. It shows the list of companies and promoters who have received the Rs 10 crore government subsidy. Please see serial 10.https://t.co/rR2m9PH8DX https://t.co/O9krRaDSRW

— Gaurav Gogoi (@GauravGogoiAsm) September 13, 2023