Guwahati, April 4 (IANS) Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the Congress, accusing it of plunging Assam into a “dark era of violence and insecurity”, and urged voters to back the BJP-led NDA to safeguard the state’s “land, identity, culture and language”.

Campaigning in the Duliajan Assembly constituency in support of BJP candidate Rameswar Teli, Sonowal addressed public meetings at Bhadoi and Tengakhat, alongside Rajya Sabha MP Terash Gowalla and other party leaders. He later campaigned in Guwahati Central’s Mitha Amtal area for BJP candidate Vijay Gupta, asserting that the Opposition has “lost credibility” among the people.

Speaking at the rallies, Sonowal said, “To preserve the honour and identity of our people, it is essential to safeguard Assam’s land, culture, language and heritage. This is the call of the times.” He reiterated that protecting ‘Jati, Maati, Bheti’ remains central to the BJP’s agenda.

Praising Gupta, Sonowal described him as a compassionate and dedicated leader, expressing confidence that Guwahati Central would contribute to a “resounding third mandate” for peace and rapid development.

In Duliajan, he termed Teli a “simple, honest and committed leader” who enjoys widespread public trust.

Invoking Assam’s historical legacy, Sonowal referred to Ahom general Lachit Borphukan and dynasty founder Sukaphaa, linking their ideals to the governance approach of PM Modi. He said the Centre’s “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” vision is driving inclusive growth across the state.

Highlighting welfare measures, Sonowal said schemes such as Arunodoi and PM-Kisan have improved socio-economic conditions through direct benefit transfers, ensuring transparency and eliminating middlemen.

He also claimed that over 8 lakh land pattas have been distributed to indigenous landless families, while significant tracts of land have been freed from encroachment.

Targeting the Congress, Sonowal said that during its rule, Assam witnessed insurgency-driven violence and fear. “People lived with insecurity. Today, that situation has changed. The Opposition stands exposed,” he said.

Calling for a decisive mandate, Sonowal urged voters to ensure the BJP’s victory in the upcoming elections to sustain peace, development, and protection of Assam’s identity.

–IANS

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