Rare gesture of goodwill amid political tensions between the two states
Assam’s flood-hit residents receive support from Jharkhand, fostering inter-state cooperation despite recent political disagreements.
RANCHI – In an unexpected turn of events, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed gratitude to his Jharkhand counterpart, Hemant Soren, for a generous flood relief contribution.
The gesture comes amidst recent political tensions between the two leaders.
Sarma, who also serves as BJP’s co-incharge for the upcoming Jharkhand assembly polls, took to social media platform X to acknowledge the assistance.
"Hon’ble CM of Jharkhand, Hemant Soren Ji has graciously offered Rs 2 crore to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund of Assam to aid flood-affected people," Sarma stated.
He added, "On behalf of the people of Assam, I deeply appreciate the generosity of the kind-hearted people of Jharkhand and the Hon’ble chief minister."
This expression of gratitude comes just a day after Sarma made controversial statements about Jharkhand’s political landscape.
The Assam CM had claimed that the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections were crucial for protecting tribals and Hindus, citing concerns about changing demographics due to alleged Bangladeshi infiltration.
Sarma accused Soren of inaction against these supposed infiltrators.
He also alleged disturbances during recent Muharram processions in locations like Barkagaon and Jamshedpur, claiming Palestinian flags were displayed without government intervention.
"The Congress and JMM speak about the Constitution. Does the Constitution allow hoisting of Palestinian flags?" Sarma questioned.
He vowed strict action against such activities if BJP comes to power in Jharkhand.
Meanwhile, Assam continues to grapple with severe flooding, affecting over 1.30 lakh people and claiming approximately 113 lives.
JMM state spokesperson and central general secretary Vinod Pandey criticized Sarma’s recent visit to Jharkhand.
Pandey accused the Assam CM of neglecting his flood-stricken state to instead "create animosity between groups on religion lines" in Jharkhand.
This unexpected act of inter-state cooperation highlights the complex dynamics of Indian politics, where regional tensions often coexist with gestures of solidarity during times of crisis.
