Congress follows ‘family-first’ politics, BJP works for ‘nation first’: PM Modi

Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharpened his attack on the Congress during a public rally in Assam’s Hojai, accusing the party of prioritising dynastic interests over governance and public welfare. His remarks come amid intensifying political messaging, with the BJP projecting its development agenda while targeting opposition leadership. Addressing the gathering, PM Modi took an indirect swipe at the Nehru-Gandhi family, alleging that the Congress remains focused on serving a “shahi parivar (royal family)” rather than the people. He said that even in Assam, the party’s leadership is centred around a single family, reflecting what he described as a “family-first” approach. Contrasting this with the BJP’s governance model, the Prime Minister said his party follows the principles of “nation first” and “people first,” and is committed to improving the lives of citizens through sustained development efforts. He also raised allegations of corruption against Congress leaders, claiming that members of the “royal family” are out on bail in various cases, and said such issues raise questions about the party’s credibility. Drawing comparisons with Congress-ruled states, PM Modi cited Himachal Pradesh, alleging that the party failed to deliver on its electoral promises and had even reduced salaries of government employees. He said such instances reflect a pattern where commitments made before elections are not fulfilled after coming to power. On the issue of infiltration, PM Modi said, “The Congress backed infiltration, and today infiltrators have captured vast stretches of land belonging to the indigenous people of Assam. This is the result of their vote bank politics.” He added that the BJP government is taking strict action to reclaim such land and protect the rights of local communities. “Our government is taking strict action against illegal encroachments and infiltrators. We are committed to safeguarding Assam’s land, culture and identity,” he said. The Prime Minister further alleged that Congress opposes government action against infiltration, stating that its leaders often support those accused of illegal encroachment. The rally underscored the BJP’s continued focus on development, governance, and identity-related issues in Assam, while positioning itself in direct contrast to Congress ahead of future electoral contests.