CM Himanta Biswa Sarma was given a unique welcome in Jagiroad, Assam, on Sunday, the second day of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s “Jan Ashirwad Yatra.” Ten bulldozers were parked on the roadside and showered with flowers. This event was organized in view of the upcoming 2026 assembly elections. The bulldozer salute is considered a symbol of the ongoing encroachment removal campaign in the state.
Public support in removing illegal encroachments
This salute to Chief Minister Sarma via bulldozers is a sign of public support for the Assam government’s encroachment removal policies. In the last five years, the government claims to have freed thousands of acres of government land. Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister said, “I thank the people of Assam. There were crowds everywhere, even late at night. The people have given us their full blessings.” He also stated that if the BJP returns to power, the encroachment removal campaign will continue.
Objective of the Jan Ashirwad Yatra
The BJP launched the “Jan Ashirwad Yatra” from the Dhekiajuli assembly constituency the previous day (February 28). The Chief Minister sought public support for the party’s future endeavors. The yatra began with prayers at the Gupteshwar Temple. Senior BJP leaders, including state president Dilip Saikia and Union Minister Pavitra Margarethi, participated in the roadshow with Sarma. The yatra aims to convey to the public the development and welfare measures taken by the state and central governments and garner support for a third consecutive term.
Eight-Day Yatra
This eight-day phase of the Jan Ashirwad Yatra will continue until March 9. During the yatra, people will be interacted with and information about development works will be shared in various parts of the state. The Chief Minister said, “We want to send a strong message that illegal encroachment will not be tolerated. People are recognizing the work done in the last five years, whether it’s land rights, employment, or strict action against illegal encroachments.” This yatra has the potential to prove decisive for the BJP in the upcoming assembly elections.
