Edited By Sangeeta Das
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
has mentioned the State Government is willing to grant authorization for the
Congress-led Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra if the party officially seeks approval.
However, so far, there is no information regarding the Congress making such a
request, he asserted. The march, set to be led by Rahul Gandhi and other senior
Congress leaders, is scheduled to reach Assam on January 18 after commencing
from Manipur capital Imphal, on January 14.
The eight-day Assam leg of the march is
planned to span from January 18 to January 25, covering 17 districts in the State.
In a press conference, CM Himanta expressed
uncertainty about the Congress’ plans, stating the government has not received
information about the route or permissions sought. Despite this, he stressed the
government is ready to grant permission if the Congress submits a formal
request.
CM Himanta, a prominent BJP leader from the
Northeast and emerging as a popular politician at national level, affirmed the
BJP would respond politically to the Congress’ march. He cleared up the
government welcomes all tourists, emphasizing the increase in tourist footfalls
in recent years.
Responding to Congress claims of denial
for using school and college premises, CM Himanta elucidated permissions cannot
be granted during academic sessions but could be considered on Sundays.
Regarding the route, the Assam CM
directed it must stay on the national highway and avoid entering Guwahati city
limits to prevent traffic disruptions. He urged any procession, including those
by the BJP, to conclude before 8 am to avoid affecting essential services. In
response to Congress considering alternative arrangements, Dr Himanta assured the
government would facilitate suitable spaces if needed.
The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, led by Rahul
Gandhi, is set to begin on January 14 from Imphal and conclude in Mumbai on
March 20.
