Morigaon (Assam), 09 April (HS): Assam minister and BJP candidate from the Jagiroad assembly constituency, Pijush Hazarika, on Thursday asserted that the people of Assam stand firmly in support of development and are strongly opposed to illegal migration.

Speaking to the media after casting his vote, Hazarika expressed support for Assamese Muslims, distinguishing them from illegal migrants. He stated that his party stands with indigenous Assamese Muslims, while opposing those who have entered the state illegally from Bangladesh. He also urged voters to actively participate in the democratic process and vote for development.

Hazarika claimed that public sentiment in the state is strongly against illegal migration, which, he said, would impact the electoral prospects of the Congress party. He alleged that people of Assam are against “Bangladeshis, infiltrators and illegal migrants,” and added that this is why Congress would not receive public support.

Launching a sharp attack on the opposition, the BJP leader accused the Congress of attempting to influence voters through unfair means, including distribution of money and liquor. He further predicted that more leaders would leave the Congress party in the coming days.

Targeting Congress leader Pawan Khera, Hazarika dismissed allegations made against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his family as baseless. He claimed that Khera’s statements lacked credibility and were factually incorrect.

Emphasizing the BJP’s development agenda, Hazarika credited the leadership of Himanta Biswa Sarma and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the state’s progress.

Polling for the 126-member Assam Legislative Assembly began at 7 am on Thursday and will continue till 5 pm. Authorities have urged voters to maintain peace and exercise their democratic rights responsibly. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash