Sonowal rallies support for panchayat polls, calls for strong grassroots governance

Guwahati, Apr 23: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, kicked off his election campaign for the upcoming Panchayat elections in Assam from Lakhimpur and Dhemaji on Wednesday.

Addressing multiple gatherings, Sonowal emphasized the foundational role of Panchayats in building a robust and self-reliant India. “If Panchayats are strong, the state will be stronger, and if the state is strong, the nation will be strongest,” he said, stressing the importance of empowering citizens at the grassroots level to achieve the vision of Vishwa Guru.

Highlighting the achievements of the Modi government, Sonowal said, “A nation cannot progress if its grassroots aren’t strong enough. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the power of the Panchayati Raj system has propelled India towards becoming a Viksit Bharat.”

Campaigning in Dhakuakhana’s Batmari, Sonowal extended his support to BJP alliance candidates Chandeshwar Gogoi (Ghilmara Zilla Parishad) and Pranab Pegu (Hahi Matmara Zilla Parishad). He also addressed voters in Majorbari, Dhemaji, campaigning for Banti Bala Pegu. Citing Mahatma Gandhi’s vision, Sonowal called for the realisation of Ram Rajya through a strengthened Panchayat Raj system.

“Without a transparent governance system, there is no development,” he stated, commending Prime Minister Modi’s model of good governance, which he said has brought transformative change to rural India. He cited major welfare initiatives like the PM Rural Road Scheme, provision of cooking gas, electricity, drinking water, and improvements in healthcare and housing as milestones in rural upliftment.

In a solemn moment, Sonowal also paid tribute to the victims of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, vowing a decisive response from the Modi government. “The entire nation is in mourning. The Modi Government is considering all options to take swift and befitting action. None will be spared,” he affirmed.

Condemning terrorism as a “heinous evil,” Sonowal concluded with a strong message of unity and resilience, pledging continued efforts under the leadership of PM Modi for the safety and progress of all Indians.

Also Read: Assam civil society and Muslim groups condemn Pahalgam terror attack, demand accountability and action

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