Why Did Congress MPs Oppose the Bill for an IIM in Assam?
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Synopsis
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma fiercely criticized Congress MPs for opposing a Bill to establish an Indian Institute of Management in Assam. He highlighted the importance of the IIM for the state's educational progress and accused Congress of being anti-development. The Lok Sabha's approval of the Bill marks a significant step for Assam's future.
Key Takeaways
- Guwahati will be home to the second IIM in the Northeast.
- The project has received Rs 550 crore in funding.
- Congress's opposition to the Bill has raised questions about its commitment to Assam's development.
- The IIM will enhance educational opportunities in the region.
- CM Sarma emphasizes the importance of this initiative for Assam's growth.
Guwahati, Aug 19 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched a fierce critique of the Congress party after its MPs from the region opposed the Bill aimed at creating an Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Assam.
On the social media platform X, Sarma expressed his disbelief regarding the Congress's position, labeling it as “shocking and perplexing.” He questioned the rationale behind opposing a prestigious educational institution in the state. He stated, “Today, as the Lok Sabha voted to approve the Bill for establishing an IIM in Assam, the shameless @INCAssam MPs strongly opposed it.”
Sarma accused the Congress of demonstrating its anti-people and anti-development mindset through its resistance to the Bill. He emphasized that this action revealed the party's disregard for Assam's growth and aspirations.
“Can you fathom the extent of Congress's discontent with Assam? Their intense anti-people and anti-development stance is evident in their opposition to bringing an IIM to our state!” he remarked, adding that the people of Assam “will neither forget nor forgive them.”
Earlier, the Lok Sabha approved the Indian Institutes of Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025, paving the way for a new IIM in Guwahati.
The Central Government has allocated Rs 550 crore as capital support for this project. This new institution will be the second IIM in the Northeast, following IIM Shillong, and will be recognized as an institution of national significance.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who championed the bill, successfully navigated it through the House via a voice vote, despite opposition protests regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar.
Following the bill's passage, the session was concluded.
In a post on X, Chief Minister Sarma celebrated the bill's approval, stating, “A truly historic day for Assam as the Lok Sabha passes the bill to establish the State’s first Indian Institute of Management. My gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji, Hon’ble Ministers Shri @AmitShah Ji and Shri @dpradhanbjp Ji for steering this endeavor.”
Sarma contended that with an IIT, AIIMS, and now IIM, Assam is on the brink of becoming a significant education hub in Eastern India. “On behalf of the people of Assam, NDA MPs from the State expressed our gratitude to Shri Dharmendra Pradhan Ji,” he concluded.
Point of View
The reaction of the Assam Chief Minister highlights a broader concern regarding political opposition to key developmental initiatives. The establishment of an IIM is a significant step towards enhancing educational resources in the Northeast. While the opposition's motives may stem from political strategy, the focus should remain on the potential benefits of such institutions for regional growth and development.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of establishing an IIM in Assam?
The establishment of an IIM in Assam is crucial as it will enhance educational opportunities, attract students from across the region, and contribute to the state's economic and social development.
Why did Congress MPs oppose the Bill?
The Congress MPs opposed the Bill for reasons that may reflect their political strategy, though it has been criticized by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma as being anti-development.
What financial support is the project receiving?
The Central Government has allocated Rs 550 crore as capital assistance for the establishment of the IIM in Assam.
How will the new IIM impact Assam?
The new IIM is expected to position Assam as an educational hub in Eastern India, providing quality management education and fostering local talent.
