Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma has accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of attempting to divide the Hindu community, warning that such actions risk weakening societal unity. Sarma, who is also BJP’s co-incharge for Jharkhand, expressed confidence in the BJP’s prospects for the upcoming elections, citing high enthusiasm among the public as an encouraging sign for party success.
Addressing concerns over infiltration in Jharkhand, Sarma labeled it a threat to both tribal and Hindu identities, emphasizing that his statements aimed to protect cultural integrity rather than target any religious group. He clarified that his calls for Hindu unity were not intended to incite hostility toward Muslims, stressing his focus on tackling infiltration without discrimination.
Meanwhile, Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren raised concerns about the treatment of Jharkhand-origin people working in Assam’s tea gardens, criticizing Sarma for allegedly ignoring the Scheduled Tribe (ST) status of these communities, which he claimed impacts their cultural identity and access to benefits.
The escalating exchange comes as both leaders gear up for high-stakes elections, with key issues of identity, security, and community unity taking center stage across state boundaries.