Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is opposed to infiltrators but not against Muslims, expressing confidence in the party’s prospects in the upcoming Assembly elections in Assam and West Bengal.
The Assembly elections in Assam are scheduled for April 9, while West Bengal will vote in two phases on April 23 and 29, with counting on May 4. Gadkari said in an interview with PTI, “I strongly believe that we will win in both Assam and West Bengal. It is the BJP’s policy to take everyone together, irrespective of one’s religion. We are opposed to infiltrators but are not against Muslims.”
He said that large-scale infrastructure development and governance-focused work are central to the party’s campaign strategy. “Projects worth about Rs 5 lakh crore are being implemented across the northeastern region, including Assam. Infrastructure projects valued at around Rs 1.5 lakh crore have already been completed, while projects worth Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 2 lakh crore are under implementation. In addition, another Rs 2 lakh crore worth of projects are in the pipeline,” Gadkari said.
Infrastructure and Economic Focus
According to Gadkari, these investments in road transport, highways, and logistics aim to improve connectivity, boost trade, and accelerate economic growth. “This sustained push will change the face of infrastructure in Assam and the Northeast, a region that has historically faced connectivity challenges,” he added.
“Inclusivity and Approach to Migration“
Gadkari reiterated that inclusivity remains central to the BJP’s approach. “It is the BJP’s policy to take everyone together,” he said, stressing that the party’s opposition is directed at infiltration, not any religious community.
Addressing a recent rally in Assam, he remarked that India could offer shelter to people with shared heritage if they seek refuge, but could not accept illegal entrants, warning that it would turn the country into a “dharamshala” (charitable lodging). He further said that unity in diversity remains “our essence” and that the BJP supports rights under the Constitution, including provisions for persecuted minorities under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.
West Bengal Outlook and Electoral Reforms
Regarding West Bengal, Gadkari observed a growing desire for change among voters. “People are in favour of change,” he said, expressing confidence in the BJP’s prospects while acknowledging the intensity of the contest. He said that the party would focus on governance and development rather than “unnecessary political confrontation.”
On allegations by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is a “silent, invisible rigging ploy” by the BJP-led Centre, Gadkari stated, “We do not want to enter into any kind of politics on national issues. We should look at issues (like SIR) keeping the nation’s interest supreme.”
