Protest Erupts Over Karnataka Minister's Comment on Assam's Semiconductor Plant

Several BJP MLAs led a protest in Assam's Jagiroad town against Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge's remarks opposing the semiconductor plant being established there. They demanded an apology from Kharge, accusing him of undermining Assam's development. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also criticized Kharge's comments.

Several BJP MLAs led a protest march in Assam's Jagiroad town on Tuesday, targeting Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge's remarks against establishing a Rs 27,000-crore semiconductor unit in the area.

Jagiroad MLA and Cabinet minister Pijush Hazarika spearheaded the demonstration, joined by around 10 other legislators from the ruling party.

'The Congress cannot stomach the fact that a semiconductor industry is coming to Assam,' remarked Hazarika, criticizing Kharge's claim that political clout influenced the project location.

Kharge, the son of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, had recently stated in an interview that the units were being set up in Gujarat and Assam due to political reasons, despite Karnataka's large talent pool for chip design.

Hazarika called Kharge's comments an insult to the people of Assam, demanding an apology from the Karnataka minister or state Congress leaders.

'Pradyut Bordoloi must clarify his stand on this issue,' Hazarika added, referring to the Congress MP of the area.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also condemned Kharge's remarks, using social media to urge Assam Congress leaders to support the state's development over divisive statements.

The Tata Group is developing a Rs 26,000-crore semiconductor plant at Jagiroad in Assam's Morigaon district.

(With inputs from agencies.)