Guwahati, 18th January: The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, led by Congress, encountered a fierce political battleground as it entered Assam, triggering accusations of “hurdles” and corruption. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh accused the Himanta Biswa Sarma government of intentional disruptions, undermining the yatra’s success.
Addressing a press conference, Ramesh stated, “The Assam government is pulling out all stops to derail the Bharat Jodo Yatra.” He alleged deliberate disruptions and obstacles but expressed confidence in the people of Assam, urging them to heed Rahul Gandhi’s message.
Responding from Haluwating, Sivasagar, the yatra’s entry point, Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack, labeling the Assam government “perhaps the most corrupt in India.” He pledged to address crucial state issues during the yatra.
In counter, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma denied deliberate interference, emphasizing that the dates for a new women’s welfare scheme distribution predated any knowledge of the yatra’s route. He canceled pre-planned events to avoid scheduling conflicts.
“The Congress is twisting facts,” Sarma stated at a press conference. “Their yatra dates just happen to coincide with our existing welfare program schedule. We had no intention of clashing with their march.”