Dibrugarh: Jharkhand Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Co-operative Minister Shilpa Neha Tirkey on Monday criticised the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led BJP government in Assam, accusing it of failing to fulfil key promises made to tea garden workers.
Addressing reporters in Dibrugarh, Tirkey alleged that the BJP had not delivered on its commitment to improve wages for tea garden labourers. “The BJP had promised to provide Rs 351 to tea garden workers during previous elections, but they have failed to ensure even minimum wages,” she said.
She also questioned the state government’s claims on land rights, alleging that the distribution of land pattas to tea workers lacks substance. According to Tirkey, the documents issued hold little practical value and could face legal challenges.
“In the name of land pattas, only papers have been handed over. These have no value. Has the government held any discussion with tea garden management? If the matter goes to court, what will happen to these workers?” she asked, adding that the move reflects a lack of coordination and planning.
Tirkey further accused the BJP of betraying tea garden communities through “false promises” and failing to address their long-standing concerns.
Meanwhile, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), which is allied with the Congress at the Centre and in Jharkhand, has decided to contest independently in Assam. The party, in alliance with the Jai Bharat Party, has fielded 21 candidates across the state’s 126 Assembly constituencies.
The tea garden community remains a decisive voting bloc in upper Assam, influencing outcomes in several constituencies. In a bid to consolidate this support base, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has been actively campaigning in the region, addressing rallies and reaching out to tea garden workers.
Political observers note that JMM and its allies are attempting to tap into tribal sentiments and local issues to make electoral inroads. However, analysts remain cautious about the party’s prospects.
“It will be interesting to see how Hemant Soren is able to influence tea garden votes,” said political analyst Rupak Bhattacharjee. “The BJP has built strong support in tea garden areas since 2016. Whether a Jharkhand-based party can capitalise on existing social issues remains to be seen.”
With campaigning intensifying, the contest for tea garden votes is expected to be a key factor shaping electoral outcomes in Assam.