Dibrugarh, January 26, 2026: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday urged citizens to decide between “vote bank politics” and the development initiatives pursued by his government over the past five years, as the state heads toward upcoming elections.

Speaking at the Republic Day function in Dibrugarh after unfurling the national flag, Sarma contrasted Assam’s current development with the violence and insurgency that marked past Republic and Independence Days. He emphasized his government’s efforts to protect land, culture, and identity, stating that encroachments are being cleared and steps taken to safeguard the state’s heritage.

Sarma highlighted infrastructure, education, health, agriculture, industry, and social sector progress achieved over the last five years. He said, “Development without securing identity remains incomplete,” citing projections that indicate a growing Muslim population in Assam from East Bengal (Bangladesh) and land encroachments that previous governments had not addressed. He noted that the Supreme Court recently approved provisions under the Immigration (Expulsion from Assam) Act, 1950, enabling district commissioners to deport foreigners within 24 hours.

The CM also honored the Assam Movement of 1979–1985, during which 860 lives were lost, and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for establishing the Swahid Smarak (Martyrs’ Column) in Guwahati. He highlighted recent government actions against child marriage and polygamy and emphasized initiatives for indigenous groups, including tea tribes and Adivasis, such as land rights, one-time grants, job reservations, improved infrastructure, skill centers, and health facilities.

Over the past five years, the Assam government has reportedly cleared encroachments, secured land pattas for indigenous communities, promoted cultural elements like Bihu and Jhumoir, and preserved the legacy of Srimanta Sankardeva at Batadrava.