Infiltration, Sealing Border BJP’s Priority in Assam, Says Sonowal

BJP is all set to form its maiden government in Assam with Sarbananda Sonowal as the chief ministerial candidate.

Arun Jaitley and Sarbananda Sonowal launch Assam Vision Document in Guwahati, on Friday, 25 March 2016. (Photo: IANS)

BJP chief ministerial candidate in Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal, on Thursday said dealing with “infiltration” and sealing the India-Bangladesh border would be a priority, as the party appeared poised to form its maiden government in the northeastern state.

Issues like infiltration, sealing of the Indo-Bangla border, problems of small tea growers, unemployment, are the major challenges. We will work together (with allies) to resolve these issues.

Sarbananda Sonowal to NDTV

Also Read: Live: 15 Years of Tarun Gogoi’s Rule Ending in Assam

Excitement at the BJP office in Guwahati. (Photo: Anjana Dutta)

Asked about the issue of migration from Bangladesh, the Bharatiya Janata Party leader said, “We will seal the border to stop infiltration.”

He also said that a list will be prepared with names of “bonafide” Indian citizens.

The main target is to protect the interest of bonafide citizens, whether Hindu or Muslim.

Sarbananda Sonowal to NDTV

15 years of Congress rule in Assam is likely to end. (Photo: Anjana Dutta)

Talking about the imminent victory of the BJP, Sonowal said, “People of Assam were fed up with Congress. They wanted good governance and that is why they voted for BJP and the alliance.”

Asked if the alliance will have a smooth sailing, the chief ministerial candidate said: “Whatever we do, we will do it in consultation with all ally partners.”