Guwahati, April 2: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday promised that his party would enforce Article 244(A) of the Constitution if elected in Assam, making local autonomy and protection of identity a cornerstone of the campaign.

At a rally in Karbi Anglong, Gandhi said the provision would give communities greater control over their land, culture, and resources. “We are committed to ensuring that the people of Karbi Anglong have the power to safeguard their identity and traditions,” he said.

Article 244(A) empowers Parliament to create an autonomous state within Assam, complete with its own legislature or Council of Ministers, covering tribal regions such as Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao.

Criticising the BJP, Gandhi accused the government of centralising authority and transferring land, forests, and water resources to corporate interests. He alleged that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had handed over large tracts of land to industrial houses, calling it “an injustice against the people of Assam.” Gandhi went further, branding Sarma “the most corrupt Chief Minister in India” and warning of an inquiry if Congress comes to power.

He also described Sarma as a “mini Narendra Modi,” claiming the Assam CM operates entirely under central directives, while alleging that Prime Minister Modi himself is influenced by global leaders.

Alongside political attacks, Gandhi unveiled a set of welfare promises:
• ₹50,000 financial support for women entrepreneurs
• 10 lakh permanent land pattas for residents
• Free health insurance cover worth ₹25 lakh per family

He also pledged that justice for late Assamese singer Zubeen Garg would be delivered within 100 days of Congress forming the government.