Rahul Gandhi targets Himanta Sarma at Assam rally ahead of assembly polls

Rahul Gandhi addressed an election rally in Bokajan in Assam on Thursday, campaigning for Congress candidate Raton Engti ahead of the Assembly polls

The Congress leader intensified his campaign by targeting Himanta Biswa Sarma, alleging widespread corruption in the state government during his address to supporters

Gandhi expanded his criticism, alleging that Himanta Biswa Sarma, along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, enabled large-scale land allocation to corporate interests

He highlighted concerns over land distribution, claiming that vast tracts of land had been diverted away from local communities in favour of major corporate houses

The rally focused on regional empowerment, with Gandhi outlining Congress’s plan to strengthen governance in tribal areas such as Karbi Anglong through provisions like Article 244(A) and the Sixth Schedule

Shifting to cultural concerns, Gandhi referred to Zubeen Garg as a symbol of Assam’s identity, while emphasising the need for justice in matters related to his death

On economic issues, Gandhi raised concerns over India’s trade engagement with the United States under Donald Trump, citing potential adverse impacts on farmers, traders and small businesses

The Congress leader outlined key electoral promises, including financial assistance for women, support for small businesses, health insurance coverage, pensions for senior citizens and land rights for indigenous communities

The rally took place as campaigning intensified ahead of the 126-member Assam Assembly elections scheduled for April 9, with results set to be declared on May 4, 2026