The Indian National Congress on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the BJP and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, questioning the ruling party’s record on illegal immigration and accusing it of using the issue for political gain. The criticism followed Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent claim that around 65 lakh Bangladeshis have entered Assam.
Reacting from Guwahati, Congress leaders said the statement raises serious questions of accountability, as both the state and the Centre have been governed by the BJP for several years. They asked who should be held responsible if such large-scale infiltration has occurred under the current regime.
The Congress has questioned the BJP’s governance in Assam after Amit Shah’s claim that 65 lakh illegal immigrants entered the state. Speaking in Guwahati, Congress leaders said the issue has been politicised for years, alleging that deportations remain minimal despite repeated promises since 2016.
Congress Recalls Pre-2016 Promises
Congress leaders said that ahead of the 2016 Assam Assembly elections, Amit Shah had promised that every foreigner would be identified and deported if the BJP came to power. Nearly a decade later, they argued, the claim of 65 lakh illegal immigrants reflects a failure to deliver on that assurance.
From a Guwahati perspective, the party said such statements are frequently made during high-profile visits and rallies in the city, but have not translated into measurable outcomes on the ground.
Deportation Figures Questioned
Citing figures they claim are available from official records, Congress leaders alleged that only around 2,200 foreigners have been deported from Assam during the BJP’s tenure. According to the party, this highlights a wide gap between political slogans and administrative action.
They said Guwahati, as the administrative nerve centre of Assam, should have seen clearer policy outcomes if the issue had been handled with seriousness rather than rhetoric.
Attack on the Chief Minister’s Conduct
The Congress also targeted Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, alleging that his statements and political conduct do not align with Assam’s cultural values. Party leaders claimed his rhetoric reflects political frustration and an emphasis on headlines over governance.
They further questioned what tangible development has taken place in the state, referring to claims that Assam has taken loans amounting to around ₹2 lakh crore. The Congress asked how these funds have translated into public benefit, particularly in urban centres like Guwahati.
Political Context in Guwahati
As Assam’s political and administrative hub, Guwahati has been the focal point for repeated debates on illegal immigration, governance, and development. Congress leaders said the city often hosts major announcements and counter-claims, but residents continue to seek clarity on outcomes and accountability.
What Happens Next
The Congress said it will continue to raise these issues across Assam, including in Guwahati, ahead of the upcoming political contests. No immediate response from the BJP or the state government had been issued at the time of reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What claim by Amit Shah triggered the Congress response?
Amit Shah recently claimed that around 65 lakh Bangladeshis have entered Assam, prompting Congress leaders to question the BJP’s accountability.
Q2. What is Congress alleging about deportations?
The Congress alleges that only about 2,200 foreigners have been deported during the BJP’s tenure, arguing this shows a gap between promises and action.
