Guwahati, March 31 Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday released the BJP's manifesto for the Assam assembly elections, promising to protect land, heritage, and the dignity of indigenous people, as well as an investment of ₹5 lakh crore in infrastructure.
The BJP's 'Sankalp Patra' includes 31 promises, including reclaiming encroached land from Bangladeshi migrants, implementing a Uniform Civil Code, and ensuring the development of the state and employment opportunities for young people.
Sitharaman said this manifesto was prepared based on "a decade of transformation in the state, which the Congress was unable to achieve in 60 years."
"The Congress had no focus on the long-term development of the North East, as that is the core of their politics," Sitharaman alleged.
She claimed that massive development has taken place under the BJP rule in the state, adding that "many young Assamese are returning to Assam from their global careers, not out of compulsion, but due to the opportunities available."
"The BJP has restored peace in Assam," and development is only possible when there is stability, she said.
"Assam has been living under AFSPA for 32 years due to Congress policies, but the BJP has ensured that the law has been removed from most states," she added.
Among those present at the event were Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Pabitra Margherita, State BJP President Dilip Saikia, National Vice President Baijayant Panda, state cabinet ministers, and other senior party leaders.
Elections to 126 assembly constituencies in the state will be held on April 9, with counting taking place on May 4.