Himanta Biswa Sarma: Congress marred by corruption, anti-national tendencies

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asserted the Bharatiya Janata Party's dominance in the upcoming Panchayat elections and launched a sharp political offensive against the Congress party, alleging deep internal divisions, corruption, and anti-national tendencies within the party.
 

Speaking at the BJP’s Vijay Sankalp Samabesh in Nagaon, Barpeta district, the Assam chief minister made a series of strong remarks ahead of the panchayat polls. Expressing confidence in BJP’s grassroots strength, he said, “In the upcoming panchayat elections, we will form the Zila Parishad in almost every district.”

Reflecting on the BJP-led government's term since 2021, Sharma described the past five years as a phase of experience and learning. 

“These five years have been a rehearsal for us. We have learned, understood, and delivered. The next five years will see even more intense work,” he said.

Responding to Congress leader K.C. Venugopal’s accusations, Sharma said the Congress party was riddled with factionalism and corruption. “In Dhing and Rupohihat, we don’t even have booth committees. There are no BJP workers in those areas. How can we attack? Congress tickets are being sold for Rs 30 to 50 lakh. Those who failed to get tickets after paying Rs 30 lakh are now attacking vehicles in protest,” he alleged.

Highlighting internal strife within the Congress, Sharma pointed to multiple rival factions. “There are two main groups in Congress—one led by Gaurav Gogoi and Rakibul Hussain, and another by the Lahorighat MLA and Pradyut Bordoloi. These factions are constantly engaged in internal clashes,” he said.

On Gaurav Gogoi’s recent visit to Pakistan, Sharma remarked, “Pakistan is not a tourism destination; it is a hub of terrorism. Spending 15 days there is not easy. At the right time, proper questioning will be necessary.”

He also criticized Congress’ social media response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir, where Hindu pilgrims were targeted. “At such a time, we should all support the Prime Minister. But Congress, instead, is indirectly supporting Pakistan and attacking our PM. They should have criticized Pakistan’s PM but ended up targeting India’s leader. Congress is now operating under the influence of anti-India forces,” Sharma said.

Reacting to earlier controversies over his comment on women and employment, Sharma hit back, questioning Congress’ own track record. “Why was Rakesh Pal made APSC Chairman under Congress rule? Why were gold ornaments given at weddings? Who was benefiting?” he asked.

On APCC President Bhupen Bora’s 24-hour ultimatum to clarify remarks, Sharma dismissed the threat. “Do they think I’m some amateur? If I file a case today, where will Congress go? I am the Chief Minister—I don’t speak without reading documents. If they have courage, let them stand beside me and read the Justice Biplab Sharma report. Rakesh Pal didn’t act alone; they were all involved.”

He concluded by reaffirming his fearless stance: “I’m not afraid of Congress. I was raised on my mother’s milk.”

The speech marked a clear escalation in the political rhetoric ahead of Assam’s crucial panchayat elections, with Sharma setting the tone for an aggressive BJP campaign.