Himanta Biswa Sarma recruits Congress leaders due to dearth of organic BJP candidates

Mathew Antony, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) media coordinator in-charge of North East, has criticised the Assam Chief Minister, stating that the BJP does not have credible leaders in Assam, and has had to resort to importing leaders from Congress. In an exclusive interview with India Today NE, Antony spoke about the BJP's struggles in Assam, pointing out that the state BJP lacks confidence to have organic BJP leaders. He further stated that the decision of the Assam Chief Minister to enlist leaders from the Congress party indicates BJP's failure to develop homegrown leadership, thereby emphasising the party's reliance on imported leaders.

Antony has voiced his concerns about the BJP's strategy of allying with regional parties through secretive means. This technique is seen by many as opportunistic and lacking real grassroots support. He emphasized the enduring influence of the Congress party in the region, particularly outside Assam and Tripura. Antony highlighted the Congress's history of advocating for tribal communities' rights and preserving their cultural identities, which has struck a chord with the Northeast's populace. He also discussed the ongoing unrest in Manipur, where tribal conflicts have intensified under the BJP-led government. This has raised concerns about the deteriorating peace and stability in the region. Antony chastised the BJP for its failure to address minority communities' grievances and for neglecting the welfare of marginalized groups.

Antony's statements underscore the rising dissatisfaction among Northeast residents towards the BJP's strategies, especially concerning matters like the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and Uniform Civil Code (UCC). These issues have sparked controversy and incited unrest in the region. Additionally, Antony has spotlighted the economic difficulties confronted by the Northeast's youth, including joblessness and the privatisation of government sectors. These factors have aggravated socio-economic disparities and augmented the feeling of disappointment with the incumbent government. With the Lok Sabha elections on the horizon, the political scenario of the Northeast seems to be changing, as the Congress party gathers pace and attracts support from disappointed voters desiring change and stability.

In response to BJP's allegations of dynastic politics, Antony defended Congress, refuting the claims and emphasising the party's commitment to meritocracy and leadership development. He also pointed out instances of BJP leaders from political dynasties, challenging their stance against dynastic politics. Antony accused the BJP of using baseless allegations and tactics to undermine Congress's credibility. He affirmed that Congress remains committed to fulfilling its promises and serving the people's interests.