Assam
Sarbananda Sonowal in Lakhipathar

Dibrugarh:  The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal addressed multiple public meetings at the New Rangagarha regional playground in Gatang, Lakhipathar as well as at Barekuri in the Makum LAC area.

At the start of the day, Sonowal paid his respects when he prayed at the Panitola Bornaamghar before beginning his day-long campaigning for BJP in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Sonowal also took part in a Padyatra that took place from Borbil Hanuman Mandir to Gandhi Maidan in Digboi. Despite festivities, thousands join the Padyatra, exhibiting the popularity of the BJP in the area. Sonowal is contesting as the BJP candidate for the No 13 Dibrugarh Lok Sabha Constituency that goes to poll on 19 April 2024.

Sonowal was accompanied by Rameswar Teli, Union Minister of State for Petroleum & Natural Gas, Ponakan Baruan, MLA, Chabua Pulak Gohain, General Secretary, BJP (Assam) Suren Phukan, MLA, Digboi; Bolin Chetia, MLA, Makum among others.

Speaking on the occasion, the senior BJP leader, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “From the 60s, the youth of Assam has borne a lot and we, the Assamese people, must not forget the brutal atrocities committed at the behest of the Congress governments. Anyone aligning with Congress must remember that people could not celebrate Bihu due to violence, insurgency, and overall law and order issues that spiralled out of hand during the Congress governments. With no sincere attempt to control it, people suffered a great deal during these years. It’s difficult to articulate the dreadful conditions they fostered in the region. Back then, living in Assam felt like a nightmare, with reports of Assamese youth dying tragically, leaving the populace in a state of despair. Those, relying on the support of Congress, and wishing to do their politics, should not have forgotten this while seeking people’s trust when their senior partner has betrayed people of everything for nearly six decades. This is really unfortunate. People will respond to this on 19th April as the opposition heads towards becoming a zero.”

Commenting on the popularity of Narendra Modi as the most dynamic Prime Minister of India, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Since 2014, when Narendra Modiji took charge as the Prime Minister of India, an honest attempt has been made to find peace and work out a meaningful and dignified solution with mutual discussion. Today, we live in a peaceful environment, largely due to the painstaking effort that Narendra Modi ji took to get the Northeast region out and make them part of India’s national narrative. It is unimaginable that Assam could be chosen for a Semiconductor hub until a few years ago due to apathy, and ignorance towards the development of the region. But, with more than 60 visits to the region as the Prime Minister since 2014, which is a record in itself, Modi ji made it a mission to make Assam along with the North-east the Growth Engine of India’s next economic surge. Today, Modi ji has given a reason to celebrate to all of us as the sustained peace, attained under his government, has provided everyone to celebrate ‘Bohag Bihu’ without any fear of inhibition, trepidation or agitation.”

Sonowal, speaking to the first-time voters, assured them of a secure future under their government.

Sonowal emphasised Modi’s commitment to ensure employment for the upcoming voters. Under BJP rule, youth unemployment would be addressed comprehensively, with opportunities not only in the public sector but also in private enterprises. Gone are the days when securing a job relied solely on connections; now, merit and skill will prevail, ensuring a fulfilling life for all.

Avik Chakraborty is Northeast Now Correspondent in Dibrugarh. He can be reached at: babs8oct@gmail.com