Are the Wounds from Nehru's Policies Still Affecting Assam?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi criticized the Congress for historical neglect of Assam.
- He highlighted the BJP's development achievements in the state.
- Modi's remarks reflect ongoing concerns regarding security and identity.
- Infrastructure development is a key focus for the BJP's agenda.
- Recognition of cultural icons is important for maintaining regional pride.
Guwahati, Sep 14 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a pointed critique of the Congress party on Sunday, asserting that the harm caused to the people of Assam by Jawaharlal Nehru’s policies during the 1962 Chinese aggression remains “unhealed.”
Speaking at a large public gathering in Darrang district, the Prime Minister indicated that Assam and the Northeast were abandoned during the threat posed by Chinese forces, highlighting a perceived “betrayal” by the Congress leadership at the time.
“The lingering effects of that abandonment are still vivid in the memories of the people of Assam. Today's Congress perpetuates the same ideology—safeguarding infiltrators and anti-national elements instead of aligning with our military and our nation,” he stated.
PM Modi accused the Congress of “endangering the security and identity of Assam” by allegedly protecting illegal immigrants and plotting to change the state's demographic makeup.
In contrast, he emphasized the BJP’s commitment, stating that his party would ensure that no infiltrators would seize Assam’s territory or compromise its cultural integrity.
Critiquing Congress's governance, he remarked, “For decades, Congress held power in Assam but constructed only three bridges over the Brahmaputra. In contrast, our government has completed six new bridges in just ten years, showcasing the stark difference between their neglect and our dedication to infrastructure and development.”
The Prime Minister praised the BJP-led “double-engine” government in Assam, attributing the state's swift economic advancement to its leadership.
“India is recognized as the fastest-growing nation globally, and Assam is among its fastest-developing states, boasting a remarkable growth rate of 13 percent. This progress results from the perseverance of its citizens and the efforts of the government led by Himanta Biswa Sarma,” he noted.
Addressing the Congress party, PM Modi recalled the backlash his administration faced for honoring cultural icon Bhupen Hazarika with the Bharat Ratna.
“People can criticize me as much as they wish. I am a devotee of Lord Shiva and can endure all negativity,” PM Modi asserted, emphasizing that he will not stay silent when others are disrespected.
Regarding the Bharat Ratna conferred upon Bhupen Hazarika, he posed a question to the audience about whether his decision to honor “Bhupen Da” was justified or not.