During election rally campaign held in Lakhimpur, Assam, Home Minister Amit Shah took aim at the Congress party accusing it of fostering infiltration, militancy and unrest in the region while paradoxically speaking about protecting Assam's cultural heritage.
Shah's remarks were a direct response to recent statements made by Rahul Gandhi, in which the Congress leader advocated for the preservation of Assam's culture. Shah questioned Gandhi's track record in contributing to Assam's welfare, particularly during his grandmother's tenure.
"The Congress party's sin is evident," Shah said. "During their rule, thousands of youths fell victim to insurgency and unrest in Assam."
In contrast, Shah highlighted the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government in restoring peace and stability to the region. He pointed to the signing of multiple peace accords and the subsequent surrender of over 9000 youths, who have now integrated into the mainstream.
Challenging Gandhi's understanding of Assam's cultural icons, Shah reminded the audience of the Congress's neglect towards figures like Gopinath Bordoloi and Bhupen Hazarika. He emphasized the Bharat Ratna conferred upon Hazarika by the Modi government as a testament to their respect for Assam's heritage.
"Under the Modi government and the leadership of Himanta Biswa Sarma, Assam's borders are now fortified against insurgency," Shah said. "The days when Assam's borders were left porous are long gone. Not even a bird can fly in from Bangladesh."