Historic win, gushes Sarbanda

By Our Staff Reporter

Guwahati, May 19: Bharatiya Jata Party chief ministerial candidate in Assam Sarbanda Sonowal described the alliance win as "historic" and a victory of the people.

"I thank the overwhelming mandate the people have given to the alliance. Cutting across community lines, people voted wholeheartedly for the BJP-led alliance," a beaming Sonowal, who arrived in Guwahati and addressed a press conference immediately after, said.

He said the new government will work in accordance with the Vision Document prepared after consultations with the people. "We are committed to implement it," he said.

"We will replicate in the State the good governce given by Prime Minister rendra Modi at the Centre. We will follow those ideals so that the Assamese community can live with respect and security," he said.

Describing the alliance partners as "five pillars", Sonowal said the alliance fought unitedly which was the key to success.

On the reasons for BJP's victory, Sonowal said: "People of Assam were fed up with Congress. They wanted good governce and that is why they voted for BJP and the alliance."

He said dealing with "infiltration" and sealing the India-Bangladesh border would be a priority.

"Issues like infiltration, sealing of the Indo-Bangla border, problems of small tea growers, unemployment - are the major challenges. We will work together (with allies) to resolve these issues," Sonowal said.

Asked about the issue of migration from Bangladesh, the BJP leader said: "We will seal the border to stop infiltration."

He also said that the NRC will be prepared with mes of "bofide" Indian citizens only.

"The main target is to protect the interest of bofide citizens, whether Hindu or Muslim," he said.

Asked if the alliance will have a smooth sailing, the chief ministerial candidate said: "Whatever we do, we will do so in consultation with all partners."

Sonowal also thanked "experienced" and "senior" Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, saying his government would need his help. "We will work with an open mind," he added.

A low-profile leader but always sporting an infectious smile, Sarband Sonowal is now all set to be Assam's second tribal chief minister after legendary Jogen Hazarika in the 1970s.

The 53-year-old former president of influential All Assam Students Union, who hails from the Sonowal Kachari tribe, brings in a unique synthesis of tribal leadership and Hindutva politics in governce-starved Assam.