Sarbananda Sonowal asks agitators to cooperate

GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday sought cooperation of all agitating groups in holding the T20 match between India and Sri Lanka in Guwahati on January 5.

The CM’s appeal came after All Assam Students’ Union (Aasu), which is spearheading the agitation against the CAA and the NRC in the state, issued a veiled warning stating they are keeping a close watch on two mega events — T20 and Khelo India. In an obvious reference to student leaders, Sonowal underlined that such events are prestigious and contribute towards the development of the state. Any opposition to such events would be highly counter-productive for Assam, he said.

Addressing a peace rally, the CM asked protesters to inform people as to why they have taken a sudden dislike for BJP-led government in the state. He also wanted to know why BJP leaders, from panchayat to Union ministry, are being made targets of attacks and for what reason.

Sonowal said, “Since the formation of our government in 2016, we have been working tirelessly and with commitment for development of Assam and for protecting interests of the indigenous people of Assam. My government has been maintaining transparency in governance all along. I have not committed any mistake. None of my ministers have made any mistakes. Then, why this hardened stand against us? People of Assam need to know the answer.”

He added, “We have enough evidence against conspirators. There are Congress and several organisations that lean towards Left ideologies.