‘Will remove infiltrators’: Amit Shah reiterates Centre’s stand in Assam, slams Congress over IMDT Act

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday, March 29 sharpened his attack on the Congress during a public address in Sonitpur, Assam, alleging that the party had historically enabled illegal infiltration into the state through policy decisions and was now opposing corrective measures undertaken by the Centre.

Addressing a gathering, Shah claimed that the Congress government had enacted the Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunals) Act (IMDT) with the intent of encouraging infiltrators into Assam. He reiterated the Centre’s commitment to identifying and removing illegal migrants, stating that the issue remained a priority for the government.

Referring to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise being carried out across the country, Shah accused the Congress leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, of opposing the process. He alleged that such opposition raised questions about the party’s position on illegal infiltration.

Targeting Assam Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi, Shah challenged him to clarify his stance before the people of the state. “If Gaurav Gogoi comes here, ask him why he is opposing the SIR. He should make it clear whether he stands with infiltrators or against them,” Shah said.

The Congress has, however, consistently maintained that due process and constitutional safeguards must be upheld in any such exercise.