BJP restored peace in Assam, spurred development, says Rajnath

Guwahati: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said the BJP-led govt had accelerated “unprecedented development” in Assam by restoring peace, claiming more than 7,500 militants had laid down arms and returned to the mainstream.Addressing a rally in Tezpur for Asom Gana Parishad candidate Prithiraj Rabha, Singh said Centre’s policies had weakened militancy, terrorism and naxalism across the country. AGP is contesting the assembly polls as part of the BJP-led coalition.“Whether it’s terrorism, naxalism or militancy, all these are heading towards the end under Modi govt. More than 7,500 militants have laid down arms and returned to the mainstream in the state,” Singh said, adding that the development seen under Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma had been “magical”. He also praised efforts to free land from encroachers.Attacking Congress, he accused the party of neglecting Assam and doubting its potential. Referring to criticism of projects such as the Rs 27,000-crore semiconductor plant at Jagiroad, he said Congress netas had mocked BJP’s development agenda. He criticised Congress’ Priyank Kharge over remarks questioning the plant. “Congress has abused the talent of Assam’s youth,” Singh added.On illegal immigration, he said, “No illegal infiltrator will be able to stay in Assam.”Later, at a rally in Dergaon for BJP candidate Mridul Dutta, Singh said Congress had given Assam “stepmotherly treatment”, keeping it distant from Delhi, which led to its rejection by voters.