Tinsukia (Assam), 06 April (HS): Union Minister JP Nadda on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Indian National Congress, accusing it of reducing Assam’s tea tribe community to a mere electoral tool while failing to address their long-term welfare.

Addressing an election rally in Doomdooma in support of BJP candidate Rupesh Gowala, Nadda claimed that despite consistent electoral backing, the tea tribes were left behind in terms of development. He alleged that the Congress had repeatedly sought votes from the community without ensuring meaningful progress in their living conditions.

Highlighting the historical background of the tea tribes—descendants of labourers brought during the colonial era from regions like Jharkhand, Odisha and Bihar—Nadda noted their significant electoral influence across multiple constituencies in Assam.

The Union minister further accused the Congress of promoting illegal infiltration during its tenure, alleging that outsiders were allowed entry and provided with identity documents and welfare benefits. He claimed that such actions adversely affected indigenous communities, particularly Adivasis and economically weaker sections, by encroaching on their land.

Reiterating the BJP’s stance, Nadda said efforts were underway to identify and remove illegal immigrants from electoral rolls and reclaim encroached land. He also commended the tea tribe community for resisting infiltration, stating that their actions helped safeguard the region’s future.

Drawing a comparison with previous Congress governments, Nadda referred to past periods marked by unrest, strikes, and instability, asserting that governance under the BJP-led administration over the past decade had brought greater stability to the state.

Emphasising welfare measures initiated by the current government, he assured that such schemes would be further expanded if the NDA returns to power. Nadda also appealed to voters to support the BJP-led alliance in the upcoming April 9 elections.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash