Guwahati, 22 December (HS):

Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying homage at the martyrs’ memorial is a matter of pride for the state, adding that the Congress is unable to accept this reality.

Reacting sharply to the Congress’ criticism over the Prime Minister’s Assam visit, the Chief Minister alleged that the Congress party was responsible for the killing of 860 martyrs and therefore feels uncomfortable with the Prime Minister honouring their sacrifice.

Dr Sarma said the Congress’ criticism reflects its mindset and asserted that the people of Assam recognise and respect the Prime Minister’s gesture of paying tribute to the martyrs. He added that attempts to politicise the issue would not diminish the significance of honouring those who laid down their lives for the state.---

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash