Assam polls: Mallikarjun Kharge calls Barak 'island of neglect', hits out at BJP over stalled projects

SILCHAR: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led govt, alleging that Barak Valley has suffered 'step-motherly treatment' over the past decade and has turned from an 'island of peace' into an 'island of neglect'.Campaigning in Barak Valley, which comprises 13 assembly constituencies, Kharge addressed rallies at Borkhola in Cachar and Cheragi in South Karimganj. He highlighted on local infrastructure woes and flood-related distress, aiming to make these the centre of the political narrative.Recalling former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's description of the region, Kharge said Barak Valley, once known for its tea gardens and tranquillity, is now grappling with neglect and crumbling civic systems."For 10 years, the people of Barak Valley have been ignored and sidelined. What was once called the 'island of peace' is today struggling with basic infrastructure," he said.Flagging key projects, Kharge pointed to the incomplete Silchar flyover and the slow progress of the Tarapur elevator corridor, calling them symbols of 'administrative paralysis'. "These are not just delayed projects; they are daily hardships. A student going to school, a labourer heading to work, or a patient in an ambulance - everyone is suffering," he said.Turning to the recurring floods, the Congress leader accused the govt of failing to provide a 'permanent solution' to the annual crisis. He said homes are destroyed, crops ruined and urban areas like Silchar continue to face chronic waterlogging due to poor drainage. "People are forced to endure unbearable traffic jams on submerged roads. Despite tall claims, nothing has changed on the ground," Kharge said.He also targeted PM Narendra Modi, accusing him of 'selective memory loss' over key promises made to Assam. Kharge cited the alleged failure to fully implement provisions of the Assam Accord, the unfulfilled promise of a flood-free state and pending demands for Scheduled Tribe status for certain communities. "Modi ji has forgotten every promise made to the common people. The only thing he remembers is handing over assets like the Guwahati airport to corporate houses," he said, taking a swipe at the Centre's privatisation policies.