Political Tensions Rise Over Infiltration and Caste Survey Debates

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the responsibility of everyone to stop infiltration, criticizing the Union government. He also questioned Rahul Gandhi's stance on caste surveys. Upcoming elections in Jharkhand have intensified political tensions, with both BJP and Congress leaders exchanging accusations related to infiltration issues.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday stressed that everyone shares the responsibility to prevent infiltration, not just the Union government.

He pressed for Rahul Gandhi’s 'formula' on conducting a caste survey without disclosing one's own caste while interacting with reporters.

Sarma, co-incharge of the BJP's Jharkhand election, highlighted that the Santhal Pargana region in Jharkhand is the worst hit by infiltration. Claiming a significant rise in the Muslim population in Assam due to infiltration, he warned of similar trends in Jharkhand constituencies over the past two decades.

In response, Congress leader Dr Ajoy Kumar accused the BJP of exploiting the infiltration issue for electoral gains, questioning the action taken during their previous tenure. With assembly elections looming in Jharkhand, political stakes are high.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren of Jharkhand blamed the Centre for failing to curb infiltration, insisting that all parties should unite to tackle the issue for the state's sake. Opposition leaders countered Sarma's allegations, criticizing the BJP for their inaction on the matter during their rule from 2014 to 2019.

The debate further extended to a caste survey controversy, as Sarma challenged Rahul Gandhi's call for a survey while allegedly avoiding disclosure of his own caste. Accusations flew in Parliament, escalating the tension between opposition and treasury benches.