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Assam Polls Crucial for Indigenous Rights, Says Sonowal

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal framed the upcoming Assam Assembly polls as a decisive battle for the future and identity of the state's indigenous people. He accused the Congress of historical injustices, including weakening Assam's social fabric and compromising indigenous rights through vote-bank politics. Sonowal highlighted the BJP-led government's actions to secure land rights and preserve cultural heritage while campaigning for party candidates. He concluded by reiterating the NDA's commitments through a 31-point manifesto, linking Assam's strength to India's.

Key Points: Assam Polls Key to Indigenous Identity: Sonowal

  • Election as a fight for indigenous rights
  • Accusations of Congress vote-bank politics
  • Legacy of Swargadeo Sukapha invoked
  • BJP's 31-pledge manifesto highlighted
2 min read

Assam poll results will shape future, safeguard identity of indigenous people: Sarbananda Sonowal

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal says the Assam election is a resolve to protect the identity, land rights, and culture of indigenous Assamese people.

"This is not just an election -- it is a resolve to safeguard the self-respect, identity and rights of the Assamese people. - Sarbananda Sonowal"

Dibrugarh, April 3

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, on Friday, intensified the Bharatiya Janata Party's 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".

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's good to see focus on Majuli's development and cultural significance. Raas and Ali-Aye-Ligang are beautiful traditions that need preservation. Hope the promises translate into real infrastructure and tourism growth for the island.
R
Rohit P
While safeguarding identity is important, I hope the focus remains on inclusive development for *all* residents of Assam. Political rhetoric sometimes overshadows the need for jobs, healthcare, and education for everyone.
M
Michael C
Interesting to read about the historical context with Sukapha. It's vital for any region to protect its heritage. The mention of 31 pledges based on public feedback sounds promising—hope they are specific and actionable.
S
Shreya B
The attack on Congress for "vote-bank politics" is a serious allegation. Voters need to look beyond blame games and judge parties on their current work. What concrete steps have been taken for women's empowerment in Majuli?
K
Karthik V
"A strong Assam will strengthen India" – well said! The North-East is integral to our nation's diversity and progress. Peace and development in the region benefit the entire country. Wishing everyone a peaceful and fair election. 🙏

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