Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday launched a sharp attack on Himanta Biswa Sarma, urging him to shift attention from decade-old political controversies and instead focus on employment generation, development, and a concrete roadmap for Assam’s future.
Addressing reporters in Guwahati, the Congress leader accused the Chief Minister of diverting public discourse by revisiting claims related to his alleged offer of the chief minister’s post in 2014 during his time in Congress. She said Assam’s people expect accountability and forward-looking governance rather than political retrospection.
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“Focus on the Future, Not the Past”
Priyanka Gandhi dismissed Sarma’s recent statement that Sonia Gandhi had offered him the Chief Minister’s post in 2014 with the backing of 58 MLAs, only for Rahul Gandhi to intervene.
“There are many decisions in politics. Some go in favour, some against. What would I say if he is still crying over a 10-year-old issue?” she remarked, suggesting that the matter holds little relevance for Assam’s present challenges.
She emphasized that instead of dwelling on past internal party dynamics, Sarma should present a detailed report card of his government’s achievements and outline plans for the next five years.
Allegations of Corruption and Cronyism
The Congress leader also raised serious allegations against the Sarma-led government, claiming that wealth in the state was being concentrated in “one family” and that public assets were being transferred to large industrial houses. According to her, such actions undermine the interests of ordinary citizens.
She alleged that corruption within the administration has eroded public trust and described it as a betrayal of Assam’s people. Gandhi further claimed that voters across the state are increasingly recognizing the need for change.
Political Background: From Congress to BJP
Himanta Biswa Sarma, once a prominent Congress leader in Assam, defected to the BJP in 2015 after leading a rebellion against then Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi. His switch proved politically significant, as it paved the way for the BJP’s historic victory in the 2016 Assam Assembly elections — the party’s first in the state.
Since then, Sarma has emerged as one of the BJP’s key leaders in the Northeast, playing a central role in expanding the party’s footprint across the region.
However, Priyanka Gandhi argued that revisiting his departure from Congress does not address pressing issues such as unemployment, economic growth, and infrastructure development.
Appeal to Youth and Women Voters
Priyanka Gandhi made a direct appeal to Assam’s youth and women, urging them to support what she described as “positive politics.” She said the state requires policies that empower young people with job opportunities and provide women with economic and social security.
“Youth are looking for employment, stability, and growth. They want answers about their future, not political blame games,” she said.
She stressed that governance should revolve around strengthening public institutions, ensuring transparency, and creating inclusive growth opportunities rather than focusing on personal political narratives.
Intensifying Political Climate in Assam
Her remarks come at a time when political activity in Assam is intensifying, with both Congress and BJP sharpening their rhetoric ahead of upcoming electoral battles. The exchange reflects the broader contest between the two parties as they seek to consolidate support among key voter segments.
While Sarma has defended his government’s record, Congress leaders continue to question its transparency and development claims. Priyanka Gandhi’s visit and pointed criticism signal the party’s renewed effort to regain ground in the northeastern state.
As the political narrative unfolds, voters in Assam are likely to weigh competing claims over governance, development, and integrity in public life — issues that could shape the state’s political trajectory in the coming years.
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