Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has revealed assets totalling approximately Rs 4.76 crore, as indicated in his election affidavit submitted alongside his nomination papers for the Dibrugarh Lok Sabha constituency on Tuesday.
Sonowal’s asset declaration encompasses movable assets valued at Rs 1.64 crore and immovable assets, including agricultural and non-agricultural land, totalling Rs 3.11 crore. Notable among his movable assets are 10,249 shares of Oil India Limited, bank deposits, and other investments.
Despite not owning a personal vehicle, Sonowal possesses gold jewellery and household goods, alongside holding cash reserves. Additionally, he holds inherited agricultural land in Dibrugarh and non-agricultural land in both Dibrugarh and Guwahati.
Having a liability of Rs 25,78,370, Sonowal, who is unmarried and without dependents, maintains a clean legal record, with no pending cases or criminal convictions.
This marks Sonowal’s third bid for the Dibrugarh seat, previously securing victory in 2004 under the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) banner before experiencing defeat to the Congress in 2009. A law graduate with an additional degree in Communication and Journalism from Gauhati University, Sonowal brings a wealth of experience to his candidacy.
About Sarbananda Sonowal’s Journey of Leadership & Political Evolution
Former Assam CM Sarbananda Sonowal will contest from Dibrugarh seat, replacing incumbent party MP and Union Minister Rameswar Teli. Sonowal is currently a cabinet minister of the Central Government and is considered to be trusted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “I am grateful to PM Modi for trusting me. Under his guidance, we all will win. I am sure, the BJP will form the government for the third term with a massive mandate with people’s love and support,” stated Sonowal in his first reaction after the update.
Sonowal’s ascent from a humble beginning in student activism to his current stature as one of Bharat’s prominent political figures is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service and principled leadership. Born and raised in Assam, Sonowal’s political journey has been marked by struggles, challenges, and triumphs, shaping the course of Assamese politics and the nation at large.
At the beginning of his stint with BJP, he was inducted in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first cabinet as Northeast’s sole representative as a minister of state with independent charge. Gradually, he became PM Modi’s indispensable choice for the job of Assam’s Chief Minister when he scripted BJP’s historic first electoral victory in any Northeastern State, five years ago.
Sonowal’s foray into politics commenced during his tenure as the president of the Assam’s oldest and influential All Assam Students Union or AASU, where he emerged as a dynamic leader advocating for the rights and interests of the Assamese people. His pivotal role in challenging the controversial Illegal Migrants’ Determination by Tribunal (IMDT) Act, eventually leading to its repeal, solidified his reputation as a champion of Assamese identity and sovereignty.
Transitioning from student activism to electoral politics, Sonowal’s allegiance shifted from the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), where he ascended to prominence as the state unit president. His electoral victories, including securing the Dibrugarh parliamentary seat and spearheading the BJP’s campaign in Assam, showcased his growing influence within the political arena.
Sonowal’s appointment as Assam’s CM marked a defining moment in his political career, symbolizing his unwavering dedication to governance and development. Despite facing challenges, such as widespread protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), Sonowal remained steadfast in his commitment to upholding the rule of law and fostering inclusive growth.
As a trusted confidant of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sonowal’s role in the Modi Cabinet underscores his stature as one of the Prime Minister’s most trusted allies. His tenure as a cabinet minister has been marked by initiatives aimed at promoting economic development, infrastructure growth, and social welfare across the nation.
Sonowal’s departure from the AGP, following differences with the party leadership, reflects his unwavering commitment to his principles and the welfare of the Assamese people. His decision to join the BJP in 2011 further solidified his commitment to advancing the BJP’s agenda of inclusive development and national unity.
In conclusion, Sarbananda Sonowal’s journey embodies the spirit of leadership and political evolution, rooted in the values of integrity, resilience, and commitment to the welfare of the people. From his humble beginnings in student activism to his current role as a trusted member of the Modi Cabinet, Sonowal’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of leaders to come.
