Guwahati, April 5: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday reiterated that the BJP opposes illegal infiltration but is “not against Muslims”, while expressing confidence in the party’s prospects in the upcoming Assembly elections in Assam and West Bengal.
Polling in Assam is scheduled for April 9, while West Bengal will go to the polls in two phases on April 23 and 29, with counting set for May 4.
Speaking in an interview, Gadkari said the BJP’s approach is rooted in inclusivity. “It is the BJP’s policy to take everyone together, irrespective of one’s religion. We are opposed to infiltrators but are not against Muslims,” he said, adding that he expects the party to secure victories in both states.
He emphasised that development remains central to the party’s campaign, particularly in the Northeast. According to him, infrastructure projects worth around ₹5 lakh crore are being implemented across the region, including Assam. Of this, projects worth approximately ₹1.5 lakh crore have already been completed, while works valued between ₹1.5 lakh crore and ₹2 lakh crore are currently underway, with an additional ₹2 lakh crore in the pipeline.
Gadkari noted that investments in road transport, highways and logistics are aimed at improving connectivity and boosting economic activity in a region historically affected by infrastructure gaps. He said the sustained push would significantly transform the region’s infrastructure landscape.
Referring to the broader political context, the minister said the BJP-led government under Himanta Biswa Sarma is seeking to retain power in Assam by highlighting its development record and welfare initiatives.
At a recent rally, Gadkari stated that while India could provide refuge to people with shared heritage, it could not accept illegal entrants, warning that doing so would strain national resources. He also reiterated the party’s commitment to unity in diversity, asserting that it is not opposed to any caste, religion or language and supports constitutional rights for all citizens.
Turning to West Bengal, he claimed there is growing support for political change, adding that the BJP would focus on governance and development rather than political confrontation.
Responding to allegations by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding electoral roll revisions, Gadkari said national interest must remain paramount and called for restraint in politicising such issues.
