A wave of criticism has engulfed Assam’s political landscape following a contentious statement made by Digboi MLA Suren Phukan during a recent election meeting. The remark, captured and circulated widely on social media, has ignited a debate concerning the equitable distribution of government resources.
Addressing an assembly at Makum Gorkha Samaj Naamghar in Tinsukia district, Phukan reportedly asserted that ward members aligned with opposition parties would be excluded from receiving government schemes. This declaration has drawn sharp rebukes from various quarters, with many questioning the ethical implications of such a stance.
Phukan’s justification for the exclusion rested on the assertion that “The opposition has neither a government nor a president. So, they don’t deserve the benefits of government schemes.” This statement has been interpreted by many as a direct threat to the democratic process, suggesting that political affiliation could determine access to essential public welfare programs.
The controversy has amplified concerns surrounding the politicization of developmental benefits, with critics arguing that government schemes should be distributed impartially, irrespective of political leanings. Furthermore, Phukan’s implied authority over scheme distribution has fueled accusations of authoritarianism, further intensifying the backlash from civil society organizations and political opponents alike.