New Delhi: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made a series of sharp political remarks during his first appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, alleging internal discord within the Congress leadership and claiming that he himself was once affected by it. The senior BJP leader accused Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra of being at odds with each other, describing the situation as a long standing rift that has influenced key party decisions.
Referring to Priyanka Gandhi’s recent organisational role in Assam, Sarma suggested that the move reflected an attempt to keep her away from Congress affairs in Kerala. He claimed that despite her being a Member of Parliament from Wayanad, she was not given responsibility in her home political terrain. According to him, this decision indicated Rahul Gandhi’s reluctance to disturb the existing leadership structure in Kerala, which he described as an internal power axis. Sarma asserted that his views were shaped by his long association with the Congress, during which he said he gained insight into its internal functioning.
Escalating his attack, the Assam Chief Minister described the Gandhis as a failed political family, contrasting their background with his own upbringing marked by struggle. His comments immediately drew a response from Congress leaders, who said the appointment of Priyanka Gandhi in Assam had unsettled the ruling party and boosted morale among party workers and supporters ahead of elections.
Sarma also addressed allegations involving Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi, denying any personal rivalry. He maintained that raising concerns related to national security was part of his constitutional duty as chief minister. He reiterated that issues involving links to hostile nations could not be treated on par with routine political accusations and must be reported to the central government.
On regional security, Sarma expressed concern over changing political dynamics in Bangladesh. He warned that weakened cooperation could pose risks along the long and sensitive border shared with Assam, stressing the importance of vigilance to prevent extremist resurgence.
Speaking on development, Sarma outlined his vision for Assam’s economic transformation, highlighting opportunities beyond traditional industries. He emphasised balanced national growth, the importance of safeguarding Assamese identity, and maintaining internal security, while concluding with remarks portraying Assam as a comparatively peaceful and stable state.
