The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which currently governs Assam, has made a bold promise as it gears up for the upcoming Assembly elections. In its newly released manifesto, the party has pledged to increase the monthly financial assistance provided to women under the Orunodoi scheme from Rs 1,250 to Rs 3,000, should they secure a third consecutive term in office. This initiative reflects the BJP’s focus on women’s empowerment and economic support in a state where socio-economic issues remain a significant concern.

The Orunodoi scheme, launched in 2020, aimed to provide financial relief to disadvantaged women, particularly in rural areas. If implemented, this increase in monthly handouts could provide substantial financial support to thousands of households, empowering women to play a more pivotal role in their family’s economic decisions. In total, the BJP’s manifesto includes 31 commitments aimed at addressing various issues faced by the people of Assam.

Among the other notable promises is the intention to implement the 1950 Immigrants Expulsion from Assam Act, which seeks to streamline the process of identifying and expelling illegal immigrants. The Act empowers district commissioners and senior police officials to act without the need to go through the Foreigners’ Tribunals, which have faced criticism for their alleged arbitrariness in dealing with citizenship cases. This move is expected to expedite the process of “detecting and pushing back” unauthorized individuals who allegedly occupy land in Assam.

Concerns surrounding illegal immigration have been a long-standing issue in Assam, sparking heated debates and protests over the years. The state has witnessed significant tensions, particularly involving Bengali-speaking communities, many of whom are from Muslim backgrounds. Since April 2025, there have been reports of police in BJP-ruled states detaining these individuals and demanding proof of their citizenship, further complicating the already sensitive issue of identity in Assam.

With the upcoming elections, the BJP is clearly seeking to reinforce its commitment to addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration while also promoting the welfare of women in the state. As campaigns heat up, the party’s promises will likely be scrutinized by both supporters and opposition parties, making the upcoming polls a crucial battleground for all involved.