Rahul Gandhi, is encouraging “separatist elements” by referring to India as a union of states, says Himanta Biswa Sarma

*Paromita Das
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of encouraging separatists by referring to India as a “Union of States” on Sunday.

The chief minister told ANI that the Gandhi family considers itself above the country, and that Rahul Gandhi is breaking the country in the name of federalism.
“By referring to India as a federation of states, he indirectly encourages separatist elements,” Sarma said.

“He (Rahul Gandhi) claims that India is not a country, but rather a confederation of states.” By referring to India as a union of states, he encourages separatist sentiments.
“There is no distinction between his language and that of the militant group ULFA,” he said.
“What will happen to India’s 5,000-year-old rich history if it becomes a union of states?” “Was it intended as a union of states when the Congress called itself the Indian National Congress and held meetings all over India?” he inquired further.

According to Sarma, betraying the Gandhi family is seen as a betrayal of the country in the Congress, whereas the country is paramount in the BJP.
In response to All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen chief and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi’s rejection of the need for a Uniform Civil Code in the country, Sarma stated that it would be in Muslims’ best interests to close madrasas and implement the Uniform Civil Code.
Previously, Owaisi dismissed the need for a Uniform Civil Code in the country, stating “It (the Uniform Civil Code) is not mandatory in this country… According to the Law Commission, a UCC is not required.”