Union Home Minister Amit Shah recounted a painful chapter from his past during a visit to Assam, where he recalled being detained and enduring harsh conditions under the former Congress government. Speaking at the inauguration of the Lachit Barphukan Police Academy in Gergaon, Shah revealed that he had to survive on jail food for seven days during his imprisonment in Assam. He was arrested during the tenure of former Chief Minister Hiteshwar Saikia when he was actively opposing the then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by raising slogans such as “Assam ki galiyan suni hai, Indira Gandhi khuni hai.” Shah highlighted how the Congress rule suppressed dissenters, including himself, while failing to bring peace to the state.

During his address, Shah praised the current developmental progress in Assam, asserting that the conviction rate for crimes has significantly improved over the last three years. He credited the Modi government’s efforts for bringing transformative changes to the region, including massive infrastructure projects worth Rs 3 lakh crore. Shah also expressed optimism about the newly inaugurated police academy becoming one of India’s premier institutions within five years. He lauded the legacy of Lachit Barphukan, the legendary Ahom warrior whose bravery continues to inspire millions across 23 languages through educational curricula. Joining him at the event were Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. Shah is currently on a three-day tour of Northeast India, covering Assam and Mizoram.