The political temperature in Guwahati intensified on March 26 as Assam Congress election observer Bandhu Tirkey launched a sharp attack on the state government over issues concerning tea garden workers.
Speaking at a press conference at Rajiv Bhawan, Tirkey alleged that the government has failed to fulfil key promises made to tea tribes and Adivasi communities ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.
Congress leader Bandhu Tirkey, speaking in Guwahati, accused the Assam government of failing tea garden workers by not ensuring fair wages and welfare, raising the issue ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Key Allegations Raised
Tirkey highlighted several concerns:
- Wage issues:
Alleged lack of a structured mechanism to ensure fair wages - Unfulfilled promises:
Claims that commitments made to tea workers remain unmet - Policy concerns:
Criticism over the discontinuation of earlier wage-related initiatives
Concerns Over Tea Estates
The Congress leader also alleged that:
- Several tea estates have been shut down or sold
- Workers are facing irregular wages and delayed rations
- Labour conditions have worsened in certain areas
He described the situation as a “betrayal” of the tea worker community.
Political Context in Guwahati
The remarks come at a time when Guwahati has become a central hub for political campaigning ahead of the Assembly elections.
Issues affecting tea garden workers—who form a significant voter base across Assam—are expected to remain a key point of debate in the run-up to polling.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
While tea gardens are located across Assam, policy decisions and political narratives often take shape in Guwahati.
The issue highlights:
- Broader concerns around labour welfare
- Electoral significance of tea communities
- Increasing political focus on livelihood issues
What Happens Next
The state government is yet to respond to the latest allegations. With elections approaching, the issue is likely to remain part of ongoing political discourse in Guwahati and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What did Bandhu Tirkey say in Guwahati?
He accused the Assam government of failing tea workers on wages and welfare.
Q2. Where was the statement made?
At Rajiv Bhawan in Guwahati.
Q3. Why is this issue important?
Tea workers form a key voter base, making their welfare a major election issue.