'Elevated to position where even Karnataka...': Assam CM Himanta hits out at Karnataka MLA Priyank Kharge

NEW DELHI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday addressed recent criticism from Karnataka MLA Priyank Kharge and defendedsetting up of a semiconductor plant in Assam. CM Sarma said the region has become a significant center for the semiconductor industry.
Responding to Kharge's remarks on social media, Sarma expressed gratitude for Karnataka’s acknowledgment of Assam's advancements.He posted on X, "When a minister from Karnataka speaks about Assam and its semiconductor project, I can only sincerely thank God that in just 3 1/2 years, Assam has been elevated to a position where even Karnataka, one of the most advanced states in our country, recognizes our achievements."

This exchange followed Kharge's criticism against Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Assam CM. Addressing Himant, Kharge questioned the fairness of project allocations, stating, "CM @himantabiswa, PM @narendramodi and you protecting your respective State's interests are considered 'masterstrokes' and if I protect Karnataka's interests, it is considered being anti-Assam?" He further added, "Jokers of @BJP4Karnataka, do you agree on this? Hoping Sri. @BYVijayendra will share his invaluable insights on this. CM Sarma saab, Why don't you ask your PM to be benevolent enough to give Assam 2, Karnataka 2 and Gujarat 1 semiconductor projects instead of arm twisting companies?"
In his response, Sarma pointed out the significant improvement Assam has seen in recent years. He wrote, “Assam Congress leaders must understand that Assam is now in a position to negotiate with major companies and compel them to invest here. Once known for militancy, Assam is now on the verge of becoming a hub for the semiconductor revolution.”
Earlier, on July 16, the Assam government handed over land in Morigaon to the Tata Group for setting up a semiconductor plant. The 517.27 bighas of land was leased to Tata Group for 60 years, marking a significant step forward for the project.
The formal lease agreement was signed at the Sub-Registrar's office in Morigaon, paving the way for construction to begin soon.