A large political rally themed ‘Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao’ was organized by the Bharatiya Janata Party in Purnia, Bihar, on November 4. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma participated prominently in the demonstration alongside Bihar government ministers Dilip Kumar Jaiswal and Ratnesh Sada, accompanied by numerous party officials and dedicated party workers. Addressing the massive turnout right at the onset, Sarma conveyed his sincere appreciation to the supporters who arrived in large numbers despite the intense heat and harsh weather conditions, reaffirming their shared resolve to carry the public procession forward together.
Rebutting Rigging Claims and Electoral Frustrations
Addressing the recurrent opposition grievances regarding election outcomes, Himanta Biswa Sarma pushed back sharply against the narrative of stolen votes. He observed that opposition leaders have persistently tried to cultivate a nationwide perception of electoral manipulation. Dismissing these charges as completely baseless, Sarma remarked that while theft has indeed taken place, it involves capturing the public's trust and winning people's hearts rather than manipulating votes. Under the current leadership, he noted, public welfare initiatives have resonated deeply across the populace, leaving political adversaries searching for excuses.
Sarma further highlighted the opposition's rising unease as historical monuments and symbols tied to foreign conquerors like Babur and Aurangzeb are dismantled. He pointed out that losing these ideological anchors has left opposition strategists wondering how they will manage to secure future election victories. Stating that the opposition has no viable path to victory in Assam, West Bengal, or Bihar, he took a satirical swipe by suggesting that if they are desperate to win an election anywhere, they might try their fortunes in neighboring Bangladesh, while wishing them well in that pursuit.
Criticism Over the Festive Rose Video
In his interaction with journalists at the venue, the Assam Chief Minister turned his attention toward a recent social media video. He pointed out that on Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi shared footage holding a rose while extending Diwali greetings to the Prime Minister. Questioning the appropriateness of the gesture, Sarma remarked that roses are traditionally associated with Valentine's Day rather than the traditional festivities of Diwali. He argued that public figures ought to display a deeper understanding of indigenous customs and values, asserting that such mismatched symbolism illustrates a clear lack of cultural awareness.
Advocating Parliamentary Debate Over Street Agitations
Reflecting on constitutional norms, the Chief Minister urged the Leader of the Opposition to honor the obligations of his legislative responsibility. He questioned whether fundamental debates with the Prime Minister on critical national challenges belong on street corners and public alleys or within the formal corridors of Parliament. Sarma underscored that democratic discourse demands disciplined deliberation inside the legislative chamber rather than unrestrained shouting on the roads.
Emphasizing that India is neither Bangladesh nor Nepal, he warned against attempts to summon citizens onto the streets or leverage external international associations to stir up instability. He advised the opposition to bring their arguments directly to Parliament, where lawmakers can engage in peaceful, structured discussions that allow citizens to listen to substantive issues rather than enduring disruptive spectacles.
Earning Public Trust as the Key to Electoral Triumph
Concluding his remarks, the Assam Chief Minister addressed the broader psychology of competitive politics. He insisted that those constantly complaining about vote theft should instead study how to connect genuinely with voters on the ground. According to Sarma, crying over repeated electoral setbacks and blaming institutional mechanisms will never yield political success. The only durable formula to win elections, he maintained, is dedicated public service that secures the affection of ordinary citizens, whereas raising unnecessary hue and cry against established procedures like SIR will do nothing to change electoral fortunes.
