Guwahati, April 6: Turning up the heat in Assam’s election campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Congress, accusing it of echoing Pakistan’s narrative even on matters of national security.
Rallies and roadshows
Addressing a series of rallies and roadshows in Barpeta Road, Hojai and Moran on the BJP’s foundation day, Modi drew a contrast between his government’s security actions and the Opposition’s stance.
Referring to past military operations, including the 2016 surgical strikes and what he described as “Operation Sindoor”, Modi said, “When India acted against terror camps in Pakistan, Congress chose to question and weaken the country’s stand. They have repeatedly spoken in a tone that suits Pakistan.”
Calling it a serious concern, he added, “Such a Pakistan connection has always weighed heavily on the nation. It cannot be allowed.”
Governance attack
The Prime Minister also used the platform to sharpen his attack on the Congress over governance, accusing the party of focusing on short-term gains at the cost of long-term development.
“For decades, their decisions were guided by immediate political benefits. That approach encouraged corruption. Our government works with a long-term vision for the development of every section of society,” he said.
Campaign strategy
Modi also brought up the long-pending demand of ‘One Rank, One Pension’ (OROP) for armed forces veterans, alleging that previous governments had ignored it for years. “Our soldiers waited for justice for decades. It was our government that implemented OROP and honoured their service,” he said.
His remarks come at a time when the BJP is intensifying its campaign across Assam, projecting a mix of nationalism, development and welfare delivery as key planks.
With polling approaching, the Prime Minister’s speeches signal a clear strategy—placing national security and leadership at the centre of the political narrative, while attempting to corner the Congress on both credibility and intent.
As campaigning gathers pace, such high-voltage exchanges are likely to define the tone of the final phase, with both sides seeking to consolidate their support base ahead of voting.
