"Congress did nothing for minorities": Rejaul Karim Sarkar’s explosive charge after joining AIUDF

Soon after formally joining the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), former AAMSU president Rejaul Karim Sarkar launched a scathing attack on the Congress, accusing it of decades-long neglect of the minority community.

Addressing a press conference at Lengitisingha in Assam’s Bongaigaon district, Sarkar alleged that the Congress, which ruled the country for nearly 70 years and governed Assam for 15 consecutive years, failed to deliver meaningful development or security for minorities. In contrast, he claimed that the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) remains the only political platform that genuinely raises and protects minority rights.

Sarkar said he was “happy and relieved” to have joined AIUDF, asserting that his stint in the Congress had caused him “mental distress.” While he did not elaborate on specific grievances, his remarks signal deep dissatisfaction within sections of minority leadership over the party’s functioning in Assam.

Taking a swipe at unnamed political leaders, Sarkar alleged that during eviction drives in the state, certain leaders “switched off their mobile phones” instead of standing with affected families. He maintained that AIUDF has consistently taken a vocal stand on issues concerning minority communities and would continue to do so.

On the question of alliances ahead of the 2026 Assam Assembly elections, Sarkar clarified that AIUDF remains open to being part of a broader Opposition front. He ruled out any possibility of the party aligning with the BJP and asserted that the doors for an understanding with the Congress remain open, provided there is clarity of purpose.

Indicating his own political ambitions, Sarkar said that if the party leadership reposes faith in him, he is prepared to contest from the Srijangram constituency.