Guwahati, November 3: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has responded to criticism from a section of Congress leaders questioning why the BJP is taking to the streets despite being in power. Sarma said there was no rule preventing a ruling party from holding public movements and advised Congress leaders to study history.
The Chief Minister pointed out that even when Congress governments were in power in several states after 1935, Mahatma Gandhi continued his movements for India's independence. He also referred to the period when Gopinath Bordoloi was Assam's Chief Minister, saying Gandhi's movements were continuing at that time.
According to Sarma, movements are not limited to protests against governments. Campaigns against poverty and illiteracy, as well as movements for education, sports, culture and the protection of democracy, are equally important.
Explaining the difference between movements organised by ruling parties and those led by the Opposition, Sarma said movements by the ruling party should be disciplined and aimed at creating public awareness. He said such programmes are conducted with permission and by following police instructions. He also alleged that Opposition protests sometimes involve pushing and disorder.
The Chief Minister further said that the government was also leading initiatives in sports, education and social awareness. He described the upcoming 'Khel Maharan', scheduled to begin on the 7th, as a movement for sports.
Sarma maintained that not every movement is negative and that campaigns are necessary to create awareness and bring positive changes in society.
