Will break ‘backbone’ of Bangladeshi Miyas if BJP-led coalition returns to power in Assam: Himanta

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on March 27 said his government will "break the backbone" of Bangladeshi Miyas in the state if the BJP-led coalition returns to power in next month’s election.

Addressing an election rally at Dhakuakhana in Lakhimpur district, Sarma said his government has been working to protect the rights of indigenous communities and would continue efforts to build a “strong Assamese society.” He alleged that illegal migrants from Bangladesh had encroached upon land and resources, and claimed that decisive action had been taken over the past five years.

The Chief Minister stated that around 1.5 lakh bighas of allegedly encroached land had been cleared during the current tenure and set a target of clearing 5 lakh bighas in the next term. He emphasised issues of land rights, identity, and dignity, asserting that the government would continue its eviction drives.

In another rally at Bihpuria, Sarma announced employment and economic initiatives, promising 2 lakh government jobs for youth and financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh each to 10 lakh young people to support entrepreneurship.

He also said that while the current government has been providing financial support to students through various schemes, it aims to make education free if re-elected. “The entire education system will be taken care of by the government. Parents will only need to encourage their children to study,” he said.

Targeting the opposition Indian National Congress, Sarma claimed that the party would struggle to cross 20 seats in the upcoming elections and asserted that it would not return to power in Assam. He accused the Congress of being responsible for underdevelopment in areas it previously governed.

The Chief Minister also addressed rallies in Ranganadi and Naoboicha as part of his day-long campaign in Lakhimpur district.

Elections to the 126-member Assam Assembly are scheduled for April 9, with counting of votes set for May 4.