Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, on Friday, intensified the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) campaign in Upper Assam, asserting that the outcome of the upcoming Assembly polls will determine the future of Assam and protection of the identity and rights of the Assamese people.
Addressing a series of rallies in Margherita, Majuli and Khowang in support of BJP candidates Bhaskar Sharma, Bhuban Gam and Chakradhar Gogoi, Union Minister Sonowal said the April 9 election is not merely a political contest but a decisive moment for Assam.
"This is not just an election -- it is a resolve to safeguard the self-respect, identity and rights of the Assamese people. Our Assam, our land, our rights -- we must carry this forward," the Union Minister said at a rally in Margherita. Invoking the legacy of Swargadeo Chaolung Sukapha, Sonowal emphasised that Assam's identity, culture and language are deeply rooted in its historical heritage and must be protected.
Highlighting the achievements of the BJP-led NDA government, he said decisive steps have been taken to secure land rights for indigenous people, reclaim encroached land and preserve the state's cultural heritage. "Assam today stands on the pillars of peace, development and renewed confidence," the Union Minister added.
Launching a sharp attack on the Congress, Sonowal accused the party of weakening Assam's social fabric through "vote-bank politics" and alleged that it had encouraged illegal infiltration in the past. "Congress committed grave injustice to Assam by compromising indigenous rights and undermining the cultural foundation of the state.
The people have not forgotten the repression during the Assam Movement," he said. In Majuli, Sonowal extended greetings ahead of Rongali Bihu and highlighted the island's global cultural significance, citing traditions like Raas and Ali-Aye-Ligang.
Recalling his tenure as the former Assam Chief Minister, the Union Minister expressed gratitude to the people of Majuli for their support in 2016. "Majuli is like my mother, which shaped my political journey," he said. Pitching for BJP candidate Bhuban Gam, Union Minister Sonowal described him as a "simple and sincere" leader who can effectively serve the people.
He also underscored development initiatives in Majuli, including its elevation to a district, improved governance access, tourism potential and focus on women's empowerment. Reiterating the NDA's commitment, Union Minister Sonowal said the BJP's manifesto includes 31 pledges based on public feedback, adding that "a strong Assam will strengthen India".