Assam opposition parties unite against BJP, raise flood relief and Kaziranga issues
Guwahati: Opposition parties in Assam, led by the Congress, on Saturday resolved to put up a united fight against the BJP and communal forces while raising concerns over floods, tribal rights and environmental issues in the state.
The meeting, convened in the presence of AICC general secretary and newly appointed Assam Congress in-charge Bhupesh Baghel, reviewed the situation following devastating floods in three Upper Assam districts and discussed the state's political scenario, a Congress spokesperson said.
Opposition leaders described the floods as “man-made” and alleged that they were linked to syndicates. They decided to take the issue to the public and jointly campaign for a permanent solution. The leaders also criticised what they termed inadequate government relief for flood-affected residents and demanded immediate assistance for all victims.
The alliance adopted a resolution seeking the release of tribal leader Pranab Doley, who was jailed following protests against a proposed five-star hotel near Kaziranga National Park. The proposed reduction of the Kaziranga Eco-Sensitive Zone was also discussed.
Another joint resolution called for a united opposition contest against the BJP and AIUDF in the upcoming by-elections. The parties also agreed to keep discussions open with other like-minded political groups to protect democratic and public rights.
The meeting was attended by Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Gaurav Gogoi, Assam Jatiya Parishad president Lurinjyoti Gogoi, CPI(M) state secretary Suprakash Talukdar and former MLA Manoranjan Talukdar, among others.
Baghel, during his first visit to Assam after taking charge as the state Congress in-charge, also held discussions with party leaders and workers on the strategy for the forthcoming Nagaon Lok Sabha bypoll.
with inputs from PTI
