Sonowal sworn in Assam CM with 10 ministers

Bijay Sankar Bora

Tribune News Service

Guwahati, May 24

Taking oath as the first BJP Chief Minister of Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal today promised social security and economic prosperity to all while pursuing his goal to make Assam a frontline developed state free of illegal migrants, corruption and pollution.

He dedicated the historic win of the BJP and its allies to the martyrs of Assam agitation against illegal migration and those from the Sangh Parivar who laid down their lives at the altar of the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Assam would be the pivot in the BJP-led NDA government’s efforts for expeditious implementation of the Act East Policy and said the eight (Asta Lakshmi) northeastern states had tremendous potential to expedite country’s growth. He expressed his gratitude to the people of Assam for giving such a historic mandate to the BJP and its allies.

Ten ministers, including two each from allies Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) were also administered oath of office and secrecy by Governor PB Acharya. Apart from PM Modi, the function was also attended by senior BJP leader LK Advani, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, a host of Union ministers, CMs of all NDA-ruled state, including Punjab CM Parkash Singh Badal, Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar among others. Outgoing Assam CM Tarun Gogoi was also present.