Guwahati, April 9: Assam Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Jagiroad, Pijush Hazarika, on April 9 said that voters in Assam are supporting development and opposing illegal immigration as polling is underway for the Assembly elections.
Speaking to the media after voting, Hazarika expressed support for Assamese Muslims while distinguishing them from illegal migrants. He stated that while locals are respected, those who have entered the state illegally are opposed by the people, and urged voters to come forward and participate in the democratic process.
He claimed that public sentiment in the state is strongly against illegal immigration and asserted that this would affect the electoral prospects of the Indian National Congress.
Launching a sharp attack on the opposition, Hazarika accused Congress of attempting to influence voters through unfair means, alleging that distributing money and liquor has been a long-standing practice of the party. He also predicted further defections from Congress in the coming days.
Targeting Congress leader Pawan Khera, Hazarika dismissed allegations made against the family of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as baseless and criticised the claims raised during the ongoing political row.
Emphasising the BJP’s development plank, he said that progress in Assam is driven by the leadership of Himanta Biswa Sarma and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Polling for the 126-member Assembly is being held from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with authorities urging voters to maintain peace and exercise their franchise responsibly. Counting of votes will take place on May 4.
