The Congress on Sunday, January 11, criticised Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his remarks related to the hijab controversy, accusing the BJP of intentionally fuelling Hindu–Muslim polarisation ahead of the upcoming elections in the state.
Responding to the remarks, Congress leader Manoj Kumar alleged that the ruling party frequently resorts to communal rhetoric when faced with electoral challenges. He claimed that the BJP relies on religious divisions to maintain its political momentum, especially during election periods.
“With elections approaching in Assam, they cannot carry forward their politics without making Hindu–Muslim statements,” Kumar said, adding that such comments are meant to divert attention from pressing public issues.
Expanding his criticism, Kumar also raised concerns over social representation in the country’s top leadership. He pointed out that India has never had a Dalit Prime Minister and questioned the BJP’s stance on inclusion.
“They speak of Hindus and include Dalits within that identity. Then why has the country never had a Dalit Prime Minister?” he asked, describing the BJP’s politics as selective and exclusionary.
