Guwahati, 15th February: Amidst a major political shift in Assam following two Congress MLAs extending their support to the government, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated on February 15 that several others from Congress wish to join the BJP.
Speaking to the media, CM Sarma remarked, “All Congress leaders are wishing to join BJP. And the ones who speak a lot in front of media are the ones who want to join BJP. But there is not much space for all in BJP. I am making space for all, trying to bring one-two leaders into our fold.”
When questioned about the necessity of an opposition in the state, CM Sarma expressed his belief that there is no need for any opposition when the ruling government is effectively carrying out all the necessary work. He praised the ruling BJP government for bringing about significant changes in the state and stated that there is no need for Congress in the state. However, he emphasized that in a democracy, if the ruling party engages in any wrongful activities, then the opposition can become stronger and stand against the ruling party.
CM Sarma alleged that many Congress leaders who speak extensively in front of the camera and the press eventually join or wish to join the BJP. “Everyone in Congress will come to BJP at some point. We are bringing them one by one, as it is not possible to bring everyone altogether at once. We are making space for all and doing this systematically. No need to worry, everyone will come to BJP one by one. Many who speak a lot in front of the press actually join BJP later.”
Regarding the ‘chanda (donation) and andolan (protest)’ culture in the state, CM Sarma stated that Assam will progress only when curtains fall on protests and donation culture. He expressed his belief that the state will emerge as one of the most progressive states in the entire country once these practices are eradicated.
CM Sarma urged the Congress to cease infighting and instead focus on the state’s development.