Former Allies Clash: UPPL and BJP Vow Enduring Peace in Assam's BTC Polls

In a fascinating turn of events, erstwhile allies, the United People's Party Liberal (UPPL) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), are now fierce opponents vying for control of Assam’s Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC). As the region braces for elections, both parties have unveiled manifestos brimming with promises of lasting peace and comprehensive development for the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).

The political landscape in the BTR has shifted dramatically.

Once partners in governance, UPPL and BJP find themselves on opposite sides, each attempting to convince voters that they are the true custodians of peace and progress. The BTC, a self-governing council established under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, plays a pivotal role in the administration and development of Bodo-dominated areas in Assam, making these elections particularly critical.

The UPPL, led by incumbent Chief Executive Member Pramod Boro, is steadfast in its assertion that the historic Bodo Accord, signed in January 2020, is the cornerstone of the prevailing peace.

Boro's manifesto highlights the Accord as a testament to his party's commitment to resolving long-standing issues and fostering harmony. "We brought peace through the Bodo Accord, and we will continue to build on that foundation for sustainable development and an inclusive society," Boro stated, emphasizing the Accord's role in ending decades of insurgency and ushering in an era of tranquility.

Conversely, the BJP, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, while acknowledging the Bodo Accord, seeks to position itself as the primary architect of stability and development in the region.

Sarma, a formidable political strategist, has been actively campaigning, attributing the current peaceful environment to the larger efforts of the BJP-led state and central governments. The BJP’s manifesto focuses heavily on accelerating development projects, ensuring corruption-free governance, and upholding the rights and dignity of all communities residing in the BTR.

Both parties are keenly aware of the aspirations of the BTR's populace: a desire for an end to ethnic strife, equitable development, and robust economic opportunities.

The manifestos reflect these sentiments, with both UPPL and BJP promising improvements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and employment generation. However, their approaches and credit-claiming mechanisms differ significantly, creating a dynamic and competitive electoral environment.

The Bodo Accord, a landmark agreement involving the central government, the Assam government, and various Bodo groups, aimed to bring a permanent solution to the Bodo insurgency.

Its implementation and subsequent benefits are now a key battleground for electoral rhetoric. While the UPPL champions it as its signature achievement, the BJP frames it within the broader narrative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for a 'New India' and 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' (Together, for everyone's growth).

As the election campaigns intensify, voters in the BTR face a crucial decision.

They must weigh the promises of two strong contenders, both of whom claim to be the rightful heirs to the region's peace and prosperity. The outcome will not only determine the future leadership of the BTC but also set the trajectory for development and communal harmony in one of Assam's most historically significant regions.