Agartala, January 16, 2026: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday raised alarm over continued illegal infiltration from Bangladesh, calling it a “serious challenge” to the Northeast and urging for stringent border security measures to safeguard the region’s demographic and strategic stability.
Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at the revered Mata Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur, Gomati district, Sarma emphasized that infiltration is no longer confined to Assam but has become a pressing concern for the entire Northeast. He was accompanied by Tripura Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury and Panchayat Minister Kishor Barman during the temple visit.
“In Assam, the minority population is projected to reach nearly 40 percent post-Census. This demographic shift presents a complex situation,” Sarma said. “Assam is bearing the brunt of this issue, and the entire Northeast must remain vigilant.”
The Chief Minister reiterated that unchecked cross-border movement from Bangladesh poses a grave threat to regional security. While Assam and Tripura have taken steps to detain illegal entrants, Sarma criticized West Bengal for allegedly failing to act decisively. “If Bengal does not act in the national interest, the consequences will reverberate across the country,” he warned.
Sarma stressed that securing the Indo-Bangladesh border is essential for the long-term safety of the region. “Having our government in Assam, Tripura, and Bengal is crucial to ensure coordinated efforts in this regard,” he added.
On the political front, Sarma dismissed speculation about his involvement in Tripura’s affairs, stating that his visit was primarily spiritual. “I always seek the blessings of Mata Tripura Sundari before undertaking any significant task. This visit is religious in nature,” he clarified, though he confirmed plans to meet Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha.
Turning to Assam’s political landscape, Sarma said preparations are underway for the upcoming state elections, which remain his top priority. “My focus is entirely on Assam. The situation in Bangladesh will not influence our elections, but people are deeply disturbed by the atrocities against Hindus there,” he remarked.
Highlighting the achievements of the BJP-led government in Assam, Sarma claimed that nearly all promises made over the past five years have been fulfilled. These include the provision of 1.6 lakh government jobs without corruption and the recovery of approximately two lakh bighas of encroached land. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for extending “unprecedented support” to the state through various development initiatives.
On the BJP’s electoral strategy, Sarma indicated a pragmatic approach. “We will not contest seats where we lack grassroots strength. In such cases, our allies will take the lead. Some constituencies may see no contest if that aligns with public sentiment, while others could witness healthy competition,” he said.
Sarma concluded by asserting that development and the protection of Assam’s identity remain central to the BJP’s governance agenda. “The current political climate reflects the trust people have placed in us. While politics is dynamic, our position in Assam is robust,” he affirmed.
Meanwhile, in the evening, Assam CM Sarma and Tripura CM Dr Manik Saha also had a courtesy meeting at Dr Saha’s official residence in Agartala.
