Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has strongly criticised the state of development in the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), questioning how an annual inflow of nearly ₹2,000 crore has not translated into visible progress. Addressing a campaign rally in Suklai Serfang ahead of the September 22 BTC polls, Sarma said people in the region still complain of poor roads, incomplete schemes, and neglected infrastructure despite consistent financial support. Our correspondent reports that Sarma’s remarks come at a crucial time when the BJP is seeking greater control within the BTC administration.
The Chief Minister explained that BTC receives roughly ₹1,000 crore annually from the state government, ₹400–500 crore from the Centre, and an additional ₹500–600 crore dedicated to roads. “Yet every time I visit BTC, the people say roads remain unrepaired, and welfare schemes are not delivered. Where does this money go?” Sarma asked, urging voters to reflect on accountability in governance. Our correspondent adds that this was one of his sharpest critiques of BTC’s resource management in recent months.
Sarma pointed out that several key projects in the region have been executed with state government funds rather than BTC’s own budget. These include the medical college in Kokrajhar and the upcoming medical college in Tamulpur. He also highlighted multiple road and bridge projects across BTC as examples of state-led initiatives. Our correspondent reports that Sarma further announced the start of work on the long-awaited Naokata Nizargaon bridge, confirmation of cleared tenders, and ₹14 crore sanctioned for the Outari Stadium.
While stressing BJP’s commitment to development, the Chief Minister cited examples of swift action under his government. He recalled how residents of Goreswar demanded a train halt at their station, and within 15–20 days, the request was fulfilled. Sarma said this demonstrated how political will and determination can directly improve people’s lives. Our correspondent adds that Sarma used such instances to contrast BJP’s performance with the alleged inefficiencies of BTC authorities.
Looking ahead, Sarma promised that the government would take forward key demands from Serfang, including the establishment of a revenue circle office, a B.Ed college, erosion control measures, a State Bank branch, improved road connectivity, and a bridge over the Suklai river. He appealed to voters to support BJP candidate Ramendra Narzary, saying the party seeks to lead BTC governance directly rather than playing a supporting role from the outside.
Sarma concluded by emphasising that despite huge funding, BTC’s growth has lagged because of mismanagement and poor execution. He urged people to back BJP for “undisrupted development” and assured them that tangible results would follow under his party’s leadership.
