Congress more 'venomous' after 10 years out of power in Assam: PM Modi

GUWAHATI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday alleged that the Congress, after being out of power in Assam for 10 years, has become "more venomous," with leaders "from top to bottom" indulging in divisive rhetoric.

Addressing BJP booth-level workers in Guwahati, Modi said, "Just as the Muslim League worked for the division of the country, the Congress has turned into a Muslim League and Maoist party and wants to divide the nation."

With Assam headed for Assembly polls early this year, Modi contrasted the BJP-NDA's record with that of the Congress. He claimed that in 70 years of Congress rule, only three bridges were built over the Brahmaputra, whereas in the last 10-11 years, five major bridges have been completed. Several more are under construction, he added, asserting that the Congress "gave Assam problems" while the BJP "delivered solutions."


Describing the Northeast as "Ashtalakshmi," Modi said the region was neglected for decades but is now receiving focused attention. He noted that the Union Budget emphasises making the Northeast economically self-reliant and claimed that Assam will receive nearly Rs 50,000 crore as its share of central taxes this year, compared to around Rs 10,000 crore during the Congress era.

He said improved highways and infrastructure projects worth thousands of crores would boost employment and tourism. Referring to the recent Pariksha Pe Charcha event held aboard a cruise on the Brahmaputra, Modi said river tourism would be expanded further with Budgetary support.

Crediting the BJP government in Assam and the slogan "Mera Booth Sabse Majboot," he urged party workers to safeguard every vote.

Paying tribute to soldiers martyred in the Pulwama attack, Modi said India now responds firmly to terrorism and accused the Congress of neglecting national security and keeping the Northeast in fear and instability.

He said Assam has benefited from major national initiatives, noting that the state was among the early recipients of Vande Bharat services and recently became the starting point of the country's first Vande Bharat sleeper train. He also cited emerging opportunities in the semiconductor sector.

On digital infrastructure, Modi said the BJP ensured 5G connectivity reached villages across Assam and the Northeast, contrasting it with what he described as the Congress' failure to effectively expand 3G and 4G networks.