Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday criticised the Indian National Congress, saying the party had neglected the Northeast during its years in power.

Addressing a rally in Assam, Modi said the BJP-led government views the region as “Ashtalakshmi,” a symbol of eight forms of prosperity, and has placed it at the centre of its development agenda.

He said the Northeast is no longer on the margins and is now playing a key role in India’s growth journey under the Bharatiya Janata Party government.

Marking his first visit to the region after the recent Union Budget, the Prime Minister highlighted infrastructure push in the Northeast. He pointed to major projects, including new highways, as signs of the government’s focus on boosting connectivity and economic progress.

Modi also paid tribute to security personnel on the anniversary of the Pulwama terror attack and recalled India’s response through Operation Sindoor.

Praising party workers in Assam, he described their dedication as “the greatest honour of my life.” He also offered prayers to Maa Adi Shakti and Maa Kamakhya. Assam is expected to go to Assembly polls in the first half of 2026.