Guwahati, Jan 18 (NationPress) During a recent address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi indirectly targeted the Congress party, condemning past administrations for "surrendering" Assam's land to infiltrators solely for electoral gains.

While inaugurating the foundation stone for an elevated corridor in Kaziranga, he pointed out that under opposition governance, illegal infiltration surged, leading to significant encroachments that disregard Assam's rich history, culture, and faith.

The Prime Minister noted that this infiltration has resulted in the invasion of wildlife corridors, illegal poaching, and an uptick in smuggling and other criminal activities.

In contrast, he commended the Himanta Biswa Sarma administration for effectively combating infiltration, reclaiming forests, historical cultural landmarks, and citizens' properties from unlawful encroachments, a move that has garnered widespread recognition.

He voiced concerns about infiltrators disrupting the demographic equilibrium, undermining culture, depriving the poor and youth of job opportunities, and unlawfully seizing land in tribal regions, posing a severe threat to both Assam and national security. PM Modi urged the public to "stay alert" against the opposition, asserting that their sole agenda is to protect infiltrators while pursuing power.

He further remarked that the opposition and its associates are employing similar tactics nationwide, illustrating how in Bihar, they staged protests and marches to "protect" infiltrators, only to face complete rejection from the populace.

PM Modi expressed confidence that Assam's citizens will also respond robustly to the opposition's actions.

He emphasized that Assam's progress is paving the way for the advancement of the entire Northeast and aligning with the Act East Policy.

When Assam thrives, the Northeast flourishes, and with governmental initiatives and public trust, the region is destined for remarkable growth.

Earlier that day, the Prime Minister conducted the 'bhoomi pujan' for the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project (4-Laning of Kaliabor-Numaligarh section of NH-715), a venture valued at over Rs 6,950 crore.

This 86-km Kaziranga Elevated Corridor project is an environmentally friendly National Highway initiative, featuring a 35 km Elevated Wildlife Corridor traversing Kaziranga National Park, a 21 km bypass section, and a 30 km expansion of NH-715 from two to four lanes.

The project aims to enhance regional connectivity while safeguarding the park's rich biodiversity.

During the event, the Prime Minister also launched two new Amrit Bharat Express trains - Guwahati (Kamakhya)-Rohtak Amrit Bharat Express and Dibrugarh-Lucknow (Gomti Nagar) Amrit Bharat Express.

These services will bolster rail connectivity between the Northeast and Northern India, providing safer and more convenient travel options for the populace. Assam's Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Pabitra Margherita were also in attendance.