GUWAHATI : Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on February 17 dismissed the possibility of the Congress returning to power in Assam, describing the party as “exhausted” and lacking support at the grassroots level.

The former Chief Minister of Assam said the political climate in the state and across the Northeast has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade under the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government at the Centre.

Sonowal asserted that the region is currently among the most peaceful in the country and has witnessed accelerated development in recent years. “Under the NDA government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the past 11 years have brought peace and progress to the Northeast and Assam,” he said.

He maintained that infrastructure expansion, improved connectivity and welfare measures have contributed to a stable environment conducive to growth.

Responding to questions about the potential challenge from the Indian National Congress in the upcoming Assam Assembly elections-particularly after the appointment of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as the party’s in-charge-Sonowal said the opposition lacks organisational depth on the ground.

“The Congress is now exhausted. It does not have any support at the grassroots level. It is merely making statements with the help of the media. The party is not committed to society or the country. It has no real dedication or commitment,” he said. 

The Union Minister also flagged illegal immigration as a major issue in Assam, stating that the government has consistently taken steps to address the matter. He claimed that communities across social groups-including Scheduled Tribes (STs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs)-feel secure under the BJP-led dispensation in the state.

“Through the NDA government in Assam, the party has ensured protection of land, property, dignity and heritage,” Sonowal said. Highlighting the aspirations of young people in the region, he said students and youth in the Northeast have confidence that expanded opportunities for employment and growth will continue under BJP rule.

“People have great trust and confidence in Prime Minister Modi. They believe that whatever he promises, he delivers,” he added.

On the recently presented Union Budget, Sonowal said it prioritises youth, farmers, the poor and women, describing them as the pillars of society. Strengthening these sections, he argued, would accelerate India’s development trajectory.

He further alleged that during previous Congress-led governments at the Centre, India did not receive adequate respect on global platforms. Referring to recent trade agreements and economic initiatives, Sonowal claimed the Congress is “frustrated” over its inability to secure similar outcomes during its tenure.

With Assam heading toward another electoral cycle, Sonowal’s remarks signal the BJP’s intent to frame the contest around governance, development, and regional stability, while challenging the Congress to demonstrate renewed organisational strength at the grassroots level.