Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge called on Assam residents to remove the purportedly corrupt administration in the upcoming elections on April 9. Kharge accused Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of engaging in widespread corruption and power misuse, labeling it a battle between a corrupt leader and the people of Assam. He emphasized the importance of upholding Assam’s culture and traditions, criticizing what he described as an uncivil and arrogant leadership under Sarma.
Kharge alleged that Chief Minister Sarma prioritized personal interests over public welfare, alleging the existence of a syndicate system benefiting associates and corporations through land allocations. He questioned the Bharatiya Janata Party’s anti-corruption stance, highlighting the lack of action against Sarma despite corruption allegations, despite claims of zero tolerance towards corruption by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
The Congress leader also pointed out the contrasting clean record of Congress leaders like Gaurav Gogoi and former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi during their tenures. Kharge raised concerns about delayed justice in cases like that of Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, criticizing the state government’s handling of such issues. He pledged to establish a fast-track court within 100 days of forming the government to ensure swift justice and punishment for offenders if Congress wins.
Kharge assured women that financial aid provided under current welfare schemes would not cease under a Congress government, with plans to increase the assistance amount. He refuted BJP’s claims that these benefits would be halted if Congress assumes power, accusing the BJP of spreading misinformation. Expressing optimism about Congress’ electoral prospects, Kharge predicted winning approximately 73 seats to lead the next Assam government.
He encouraged voters, including those residing outside the state, to return and vote for change, emphasizing the need for a responsible and ethical Chief Minister. Kharge stressed that corrupt leadership leads to governance breakdown, framing the election as a battle between a corrupt Chief Minister and the people of Assam.
