Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has dismissed labels of being “anti-democratic” and “fascist,” countering that the affectionate title given to him by local citizens outweighs the critiques of international media. Speaking during an election rally in Duliajan, Sarma engaged in a sharp exchange with a BBC reporter, defending his administration’s record on communal harmony and democratic values.

When questioned by the BBC on whether his government has been fair to all sections of society, the Chief Minister claimed that the state is more unified than ever. “All sections are very happy, whether Hindu, Muslim, or Christian,” Sarma said. “All are dancing and we have a united Assam.”

The confrontation intensified when the reporter cited critics who have characterized the Chief Minister’s governance as communalist and dictatorial. Specifically, the reporter asked for a response to those who have compared him to Hitler. Sarma was quick to pivot to his local popularity, contrasting global perception with his domestic “Mama” (maternal uncle) persona. “I think BBC has a vote in the UK,” Sarma remarked. “BBC told me Hitler, but the people of Assam call me Mama.”