Assam CM Confident of BJP Dominance in Barak Valley, Unveils Major Development Agenda
In a bold political forecast, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared on Friday that the Bharatiya Janata Party is poised to secure between nine and eleven of the thirteen assembly constituencies in the Barak Valley region. Speaking to journalists after a campaign event in Katigorah, Sarma exuded unwavering confidence in his party's electoral prospects, emphasizing a strong performance across the entire valley.
Aggressive Campaign Across Five Key Constituencies
The chief minister has launched an intensive campaign drive targeting five crucial constituencies: Hailakandi, Dholai, Katigorah, Borkhola, and Silchar. During these rallies, he vigorously promoted the BJP government's development track record and outlined a comprehensive series of proposed projects earmarked for the Barak Valley should the party retain power.
Major infrastructure announcements took center stage, with Sarma pledging a high-speed corridor connecting Panchgram to Barapani, the establishment of two new medical colleges, the development of Doloo airport, and the construction of a flyover in Silchar. He identified the completion of the Panchgram–Barapani expressway within a three-year timeframe as a top administrative priority.
Constituency-Specific Initiatives and Welfare Promises
Sarma detailed a granular development plan tailored to individual constituencies, demonstrating a focused approach to regional growth.
- Hailakandi: Proposals include a new university, an engineering college, a cancer hospital, and a medical college. The double-laning of the Silchar–Hailakandi road via Assam University was also promised.
- Panchgram: Plans for a new industry at the site of the Cachar paper mill.
- Katigorah: Commitments for a women's college, a 100-bed hospital, and co-district status to be conferred by August 15.
- Kalain: Upgradation to a municipal board.
- Borkhola: Announcement of a new stadium.
Furthermore, the chief minister unveiled a special Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) designed exclusively for candidates from the Barak Valley. He extensively spoke about employment generation programs and welfare schemes aimed at empowering the region's youth and supporting economically weaker sections.
Sharp Rebuttal to Opposition and High-Energy Finale
Taking aim at the opposition Congress party, Sarma warned that Assam's current development momentum would grind to a halt if Congress were to assume power. He issued a sharp rebuttal to remarks made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who suggested Sarma could face legal consequences if Congress wins. "Congress will not come to power in Assam," Sarma asserted definitively.
The day concluded with the chief minister leading a high-energy roadshow through Silchar in the evening. The event drew large, enthusiastic crowds as he campaigned vigorously for BJP candidates in the final stretch before the polls.
