Congress MP and Assam Congress chief Gaurav Gogoi launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday, accusing him of fabricating allegations and attempting to mislead the people of Assam. Gogoi alleged that Sarma is trying to shift focus from pressing state issues by targeting opposition leaders. He said the Chief Minister is treating the people as if they are “foolish” and unaware of the government’s failures.
The statement comes in response to Sarma’s announcement that he would first review the Special Investigation Team (SIT) report probing Gogoi’s alleged links with Pakistani entities before releasing it. Gogoi dismissed these allegations as baseless and politically motivated, arguing that Sarma is using state machinery to discredit his opponents rather than addressing governance challenges.
Political Tensions Rise in Assam
The war of words between Gogoi and Sarma has intensified Assam’s already charged political climate. The Congress party has rallied behind Gogoi, accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led state government of launching a smear campaign ahead of upcoming local body elections. Party leaders have claimed that the SIT probe is an attempt to create a narrative that benefits the ruling party.
Gogoi has positioned himself as a key critic of the Sarma administration, highlighting issues like unemployment, price hikes, and infrastructure gaps. His latest remarks have further polarized Assam’s political discourse. Observers say this escalation reflects a broader struggle between the BJP and Congress over shaping voter sentiment in the state.
Congress Demands Transparency
The Congress party has called for immediate transparency in the ongoing SIT investigation. Leaders argue that the government should release the findings of the probe without delay if it genuinely seeks to uphold accountability. Gogoi stated that withholding the report while making public allegations raises questions about the credibility of the process.
According to him, Sarma’s decision to review the report first signals political intent rather than legal prudence. Congress leaders have warned that any attempt to selectively disclose or manipulate information will be met with a strong response from the opposition.
BJP Defends Government Actions
The BJP has stood by Sarma’s stance, saying the investigation was necessary to address national security concerns. The party has accused Gogoi of avoiding scrutiny by attacking the Chief Minister. BJP spokespersons have argued that the SIT’s work was based on credible intelligence and that the report will be made public after thorough examination.
This exchange of accusations has created a political standoff, with both parties using the controversy to rally their respective bases. The issue has also sparked debates over the role of investigative agencies in state politics, with opposition leaders calling for judicial oversight of sensitive probes.
A Battle Over Public Perception
Gogoi’s statement that Sarma “thinks people are foolish” has resonated widely on social media, where supporters of both leaders have engaged in heated discussions. Political analysts say this rhetoric signals a shift toward aggressive campaigning by the Congress ahead of elections. Gogoi’s approach highlights the opposition’s effort to portray Sarma as a leader who prioritizes political narratives over governance.
At the same time, BJP leaders are framing Gogoi’s comments as an attempt to deflect attention from serious allegations. The battle for public perception has intensified, with both parties seeking to control the narrative in Assam’s political landscape.
High Stakes Ahead of Polls
The timing of this controversy, just months before local body elections, adds to its significance. Gogoi has emerged as one of the strongest Congress voices in Assam, making him a prime target for political attacks. Sarma, known for his assertive style, is using this opportunity to position himself as a leader tough on security threats.
Both parties are expected to escalate their campaigns, with rallies, press briefings, and social media outreach dominating the political scene. Voters, meanwhile, are watching closely as the SIT investigation takes center stage in Assam’s election narrative.
Call to Action
The political clash between Gaurav Gogoi and Himanta Biswa Sarma highlights the deepening divide in Assam’s political landscape. With allegations, counter-allegations, and investigations dominating headlines, transparency and accountability have become urgent demands from voters. Citizens are urged to stay informed, engage in discussions based on verified facts, and participate actively in the democratic process as Assam heads toward crucial elections.
