Don't vote for those who preach hatred: Sonia

In a clear hint at the BJP, Congress president Sonia Gandhi Sunday asked people in Assam not to vote for those who believe in the politics of hatred.

"Two forces which believe in opposing ideologies are facing each other in the election," Gandhi told an election rally in Lakhimpur district.

"While on the one hand you have the Congress that has struggled for betterment of all sections of the society, on the other hand you have a party that believes in hatred," she said without taking any party's name.

"These leaders were not to be seen when Congress leaders from the northeast struggled along with other national leaders for the country's independence.

"Even after independence, these forces have wasted their time criticizing the Congress," Gandhi added.

She added: "You have to decide the future of our country. Your vote will decided as to what type of leadership will run the country."

Gandhi referred to the floods and erosion problems faced in Assam and said several steps had been taken for better flood management in places like Dhemaji, Lakhimpur and Majuli.

"I am confident the people of the northeast know what is real nationalism. I hope you will not be misled by those who are simply beating the drums of nationalism," she said.