In a dramatic turn of events in Assam, a clash between Congress workers and Assam police during Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra has escalated into a political battleground, marked by accusations, security concerns, and a swift transfer of the case to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
The incident unfolded as the state BJP government barred the yatra from key Guwahati roads, citing potential traffic jams. Congress, dismissing the denial as frivolous, attempted to enter the city, leading to a clash with a sizable police contingent. The chaotic scenes near Guwahati’s city limits prompted the Assam Police to register a case against Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders under nine sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges related to rioting, unlawful assembly, and criminal conspiracy.
Amidst the political turmoil, Assam police chief GP Singh announced the transfer of the case to the CID for a “thorough and in-depth investigation through a Special Investigation Team (SIT).” This move underscores the seriousness of the situation and aims to ensure an unbiased examination of the events surrounding the clash.
The escalation of tensions between Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister Himanta Sarma further complicates the narrative. Congress leaders allege that Sarma, once a member of their party, is intentionally creating obstacles for the yatra. Security concerns have heightened, prompting Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to write to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, raising alarms about breaches in Rahul Gandhi’s security during the yatra in Assam.
Rahul Gandhi, in his public addresses in Assam, did not hold back in criticizing Chief Minister Sarma. He accused Sarma of being the country’s most corrupt Chief Minister and claimed that he is being remote-controlled by the central government in Delhi. Gandhi’s bold statements include daring the Assam Chief Minister to register more cases against him, asserting that he is not scared.
On the flip side, Chief Minister Sarma retaliated, accusing the Congress MP of instigating unrest in the state. Sarma alleged that the Congress was attempting to destabilize Assam and declared his intent to arrest Rahul Gandhi after the Lok Sabha election. He emphasized the need for a post-election arrest to prevent the situation from being politicized, claiming that the SIT investigation has evidence against Gandhi.
As Assam becomes the focal point of this political showdown, the clash between the Congress and the ruling government sets the stage for a contentious battle. The forthcoming Lok Sabha election adds another layer of complexity, with both sides gearing up for a political face-off that could shape the future political landscape in the region.