EXCLUSIVE| Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Talks About Implementing NRC And Relationship With Sonowal

Dispur: After much speculations, Himanta Biswa Sarma assumed office earlier this week as the new Chief Minister Of Assam. ABP News spoke to new Assam CM and discussed his priorities for Assam and his relationship with the former Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.

Himanta Biswa Sarma said that his priority will be to tackle Covid 19 amid the recent brutal wave and provide vaccination to each and every citizen. Sarma said that the state has been able to control the surge of Covid cases and Assam is in a much better situation now after the lockdown was announced. Sarma said that the containment policy of  Assam is helping the state to battle Covid 19.

On being asked about implementing the controversial CAA and NRC in Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma said that there is no anti-NRC protest in Assam and even the opposition parties are in support. Both Congress and UDF have welcomed NRC in Assam. 

 “Everyone, including Muslims and even immigrants, support the NRC. The perception in Assam is different for NRC. The NRC is a document, which people think to be the only solution for foreign nationals. On the CAA front, the BJP would support it. “

When asked about his relationship with former Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Himanta said that they both are the pillars of the same party and the only difference was that Sonowal joined BJP 2 years before me but we both worked towards the same goal and helped BJP to reach their destination. Now, it’s the party’s decision to appoint me as the Chief Minister Of Assam and giving Sonowal some other important responsibilities.

On being asked about opposition parties slamming the Centre amid oxygen shortage, Himanta Biswa Sarma replied that when PM Modi instructed he established 13 small oxygen plants within the state and is ready to help everyone in need. Sarma said that Assam is currently providing oxygen to its neighbouring state Manipur and Meghalaya. 

When asked about BJP ‘s performance in Bengal, Himanta Biswa Sarma said that BJP faired well in the state and defeating a sitting him was a huge milestone for the saffron party.