GUWAHATI: The opposition in Assam has demanded the resignation of chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma after bomb-like materials were discovered in at least eight different locations across the state.
This alarming development comes in the wake of claims by the banned insurgent group, United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I), that it had planted 24 bombs throughout Assam.
Leading the charge, Assam Congress president Bhupen Kumar Borah strongly criticized the BJP-led government for its failure to ensure security in the state.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Borah lambasted the government’s approach, saying, “Assam’s descent into chaos is appalling! Despite overwhelming support, the BJP-led government has failed to deliver. CM @HimantaBiswa’s obsession with ‘jihad’ rhetoric has distracted from pressing issues, compromising security and development.”
Borah’s sentiments were echoed by Assam MLA Akhil Gogoi, who condemned ULFA-I’s actions while also questioning the state’s security apparatus.
“It is strange that CM Himanta Biswa Sarma and his police had no clue about the bombs. Our only demand is that CM-cum-Home Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma must resign immediately for failing to provide a secure environment in the state,” Gogoi stated.
He further added that the failure of the bombs to explode was solely due to the mercy of ULFA-I, illustrating the vulnerability of the state to potential attacks.
Gogoi criticized the current state of law and order in Assam, asserting that the government has completely failed in maintaining security.
“There is no existence of police and law and order. The Assam government has totally failed,” he said.
In response to the escalating criticism, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma called on ULFA-I chief Paresh Barua to prioritize dialogue over threats, stressing the need to maintain a stable environment to attract investment in Assam.
Meanwhile, police investigations into the seized materials are ongoing.