Guwahati, Feb 20 (NationPress) Union Home Minister Amit Shah delivered a sharp critique of the Congress, claiming they have "opened the borders" to allow a surge of Bangladeshi immigrants into India during their governance.

While addressing an audience in the Nathanpur region of Assam's Cachar district, Shah emphasized that every illegal Bangladeshi national who entered India under Congress leadership will be tracked down and deported.

"The Congress government enabled uncontrolled infiltration by opening the borders for Bangladeshis. I assure the citizens of Assam that those who illegally entered the nation during Congress rule will be returned," Shah affirmed, eliciting enthusiastic approval from attendees.

He charged the opposition party with jeopardizing national security for electoral gain and neglecting the issues faced by border states like Assam.

The Home Minister stated that the BJP-led administration at the national level is dedicated to safeguarding India's borders and preserving the cultural and demographic integrity of northeastern states.

He mentioned that stringent actions are already being implemented to enhance border management and combat illegal immigration.

During his visit, Shah also inaugurated the second phase of the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP-2) in Nathanpur, situated along the India-Bangladesh border.

This initiative aims to boost the development of border villages by improving infrastructure, connectivity, job prospects, and access to essential services, thereby elevating residents' quality of life and deterring migration from these strategically significant regions.

Shah highlighted that the Vibrant Villages Programme embodies Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of transforming India's border villages into flourishing hubs of development.

"Previously, border villages faced neglect, forcing residents to migrate. Through VVP, we are ensuring that the facilities available in other regions of the country extend to these villages as well," he remarked.

The Home Minister pointed out that the first phase of the programme had produced favorable outcomes by enhancing road connectivity, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities in border regions.

VVP-2, he noted, would broaden these benefits to a greater number of villages, further reinforcing border security.

Reiterating the Centre's commitment, Shah assured that Assam and the entire Northeast will remain a priority for the BJP government, both in terms of development and national security.