Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has strongly asserted that a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) is essential to preserve the peace, stability, and inclusive development achieved in recent years. Addressing a rally at Fatemabad Tea Estate under Salbari constituency in Baksa district on September 15, 2025, Sonowal emphasized that the transformation of Bodoland from a conflict-ridden zone to a model of brotherhood and progress was made possible only through the decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
Sonowal’s remarks come ahead of the upcoming BTR elections, where the BJP is campaigning on a platform of clean governance, tribal empowerment, and infrastructure-led growth. He urged voters to support BJP candidate Chakradhar Das, calling the election “a fight to protect the peace we have achieved together.”
Bodoland’s Journey: From Unrest to Unity
Once synonymous with insurgency and ethnic strife, Bodoland has undergone a dramatic transformation since the signing of the Bodo Peace Accord in 2020. The accord brought together key stakeholders including the All Bodo Students Union (ABSU), National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), and the BTC government, laying the foundation for a new era of reconciliation and development.
| Milestone | Year | Impact on BTR |
|---|---|---|
| First Bodo Accord | 2003 | Ended BLT insurgency |
| Second Bodo Peace Accord | 2020 | Unified Bodo factions, initiated development |
| BJP-led BTC Government | 2020–2025 | Infrastructure, education, healthcare reforms |
Sonowal credited the Modi government’s “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas” approach for building trust among indigenous communities and ensuring equitable development across BTR.
Key Development Initiatives in BTR
Under BJP’s leadership, BTR has witnessed a surge in infrastructure projects, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. The region now boasts three new medical colleges—in Kokrajhar, Udalguri, and Tamulpur—and improved connectivity through bridges, roads, and rural electrification.
| Sector | Major Projects Completed |
|---|---|
| Healthcare | Medical colleges in Kokrajhar, Udalguri, Tamulpur |
| Infrastructure | 850-meter bridge over Pagladiya River, rural roads |
| Education | Upgraded schools, vocational training centers |
| Agriculture | Irrigation schemes, farmer subsidies |
| Employment | Skill development programs, MSME support |
Sonowal emphasized that these initiatives are not just statistics but life-changing interventions for the 3.5 million residents of BTR.
Tribal Empowerment and Inclusive Governance
The Union Minister highlighted BJP’s commitment to empowering the 26 indigenous communities of BTR, including Bodos, Rabhas, Garos, and Koch-Rajbongshis. He stressed that only a transparent and corruption-free government can ensure justice and dignity for all.
| Community | BJP’s Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Bodos | Political representation, cultural preservation |
| Rabhas | Education access, land rights |
| Garos | Healthcare outreach, tribal welfare schemes |
| Koch-Rajbongshis | Skill development, employment generation |
Sonowal stated, “Every citizen of BTR must feel empowered to contribute their skills and talents freely in this new environment of peace. It is this spirit of brotherhood, equality and opportunity that the BJP wants to sustain.”
Political Contrast: BJP vs Congress Legacy
Taking a sharp dig at the Congress, Sonowal accused successive governments of neglecting Assam and BTR, pushing generations into poverty and insecurity. He contrasted this with the BJP’s record of peace-building and economic growth.
| Political Party | Governance Record in BTR |
|---|---|
| Congress | Decades of neglect, lack of infrastructure |
| BJP | Peace accords, development, tribal inclusion |
He added, “Under Modi ji, India has not only secured peace in sensitive areas but also risen as a strong voice in the world. From the 11th largest economy in 2014, India is now the 4th largest. By 2029, we will be third, and by 2047, among the most developed nations. This growth journey must include BTR.”
BJP’s Election Strategy in BTR
With elections around the corner, the BJP has launched “Mission BTR,” a grassroots campaign involving Mandal presidents, Morcha leaders, and karyakartas. The party is focusing on regional issues, organizational readiness, and voter outreach.
| Campaign Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Mission BTR | Focus on peace, unity, development |
| Candidate Selection | Chakradhar Das for Salbari constituency |
| Voter Outreach | District-level consultations, rallies |
| Leadership Support | CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, Sarbananda Sonowal |
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has reiterated BJP’s resolve to contest the elections with full might, stating that the party will fight not against individuals but for the rights and welfare of all communities.
Public Sentiment and Ground Realities
Local residents have expressed appreciation for the improved law and order situation and access to basic services. Youth groups and women’s collectives have welcomed skill development programs and healthcare outreach.
| Public Feedback Area | Sentiment |
|---|---|
| Law and Order | Improved, peaceful environment |
| Healthcare Access | Positive response to new medical colleges |
| Employment | Demand for more job opportunities |
| Tribal Rights | Support for inclusive policies |
However, some civil society groups have called for greater transparency in fund allocation and faster implementation of welfare schemes.
Conclusion: BJP’s Vision for a Peaceful and Prosperous BTR
Sarbananda Sonowal’s rallying call for a BJP government in BTR underscores the party’s vision of sustained peace, inclusive development, and tribal empowerment. As the region prepares for elections, the stakes are high—not just for political parties but for the future of Bodoland itself.
With a legacy of conflict behind it and a roadmap for progress ahead, BTR stands at a pivotal moment. Whether the BJP can retain its mandate will depend on its ability to deliver on promises and uphold the trust of its diverse communities.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available statements, verified news reports, and official government data. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute political advice or endorsement. All figures and developments are subject to change based on electoral outcomes and policy updates.
