Himanta Biswa Sarma Criticizes JMM for Alleged Support of Infiltrators

Guwahati : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who also serves as the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) co-in-charge for Jharkhand, has sharply criticized the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) for purportedly backing infiltrators in the state. During a media briefing on Sunday, Sarma suggested that political entities endorsing such views should face consequences, including possible cancellation of their registration.

Sarma revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the Santhal Pargana region soon, where discussions on security and border issues are anticipated to take center stage ahead of the upcoming Jharkhand Assembly elections.

In response to a complaint lodged against him by the opposition INDIA bloc, Sarma contended that the JMM’s alleged support for infiltrators is at odds with national security interests. He remarked, “The opposition’s complaint stems from my condemnation of infiltrators, indicating that the JMM is aligning with them. Any party that backs infiltration or opposes measures to counter it should face revocation of their registration.”

Sarma further urged the JMM to adopt a stronger position against infiltration, warning them of potential backlash if they continue their current stance. “If I speak out against infiltration, the JMM should stand with me; otherwise, they risk being perceived as the party of infiltrators. Their recent letter seems to reflect concerns they are unwilling to voice openly,” he stated.

This controversy ignited after the INDIA bloc submitted a letter to Jharkhand’s Chief Electoral Officer on November 2, requesting urgent action regarding Sarma’s “divisive and inflammatory speeches.” Bloc leaders specifically pointed to remarks made by Sarma at an election rally in Sarath on November 1, claiming they targeted Muslim minorities and calling for swift governmental intervention.