Akhil Gogoi's comments irrelevant, we stand with indigenous people, says Himanta Biswa Sarma

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has strongly defended the state's ongoing eviction operations, accusing opposition parties of indulging in vote bank politics and siding with encroachers. Speaking on the recent eviction drive conducted in Chapar, the Chief Minister emphasized that his government is committed to restoring illegally occupied land across the state, particularly in ecologically sensitive and forest areas.

Responding to criticisms by Raijor Dal leader Akhil Gogoi, Sarma said,

“Whatever Akhil Gogoi says is for him to know. I will remain focused on my responsibilities in Assam, and he should mind his own. He often speaks for one particular community, but our commitment lies with the rights and welfare of the indigenous people.”

The Chief Minister also lashed out at the Congress party, accusing it of politicizing the eviction issue.

“Congress is no longer a political force in Assam. They oppose evictions solely for electoral gains. Our goal is to free government and forest lands from illegal encroachments by settlers who have come from different regions,” he added.

Sarma further informed that after the successful eviction at Chapar, the next major operation is scheduled for July 10 in the Paikan reserved forest area of Goalpara district, reaffirming the government’s stance on restoring encroached lands.

Later in the day, while addressing a public rally in Goreswar, CM Sarma underlined the importance of welcoming youth into the BJP to ensure the party's future electoral strength.

“In the BJP, many of us are veterans. If an 18 or 25-year-old youth wishes to join, should we reject him? If we turn him away, he will join Congress. Then how will BJP win elections?” he said.

“Don’t offer ideas that aim to defeat the BJP—give us ideas that will help us win", added CM Sarma.