Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has formally requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s intervention into what he describes as serious irregularities in the execution of Assam’s government-supported dairy development initiatives.
In a letter sent on Friday, Gogoi alleged political favoritism and financial discrepancies that he claims have compromised the integrity of the projects.
Allegations Against Assam Dairy Project
According to Gaurav Gogoi, the Assam dairy project has seen questionable allocation of contracts and financial mismanagement.
He alleged that contracts under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission and the Integrated Dairy Development Scheme were awarded to entities with close political connections to the ruling dispensation in Assam.
Gogoi expressed concern over the selection of companies lacking experience in the dairy sector.
“Public funds should be utilized for genuine development, not political patronage,” Gogoi wrote in his letter.
Focus on Transparency and Farmers’ Welfare
The Congress MP emphasized that the aim of these dairy schemes is to empower farmers, improve milk production, and boost rural incomes.
“Instead, we’re witnessing how political influence can divert resources meant for farmers,” he stated.
Gogoi warned that without immediate corrective measures, the dairy sector in Assam could suffer long-term damage, impacting thousands of dairy farmers.
Assam Government’s Response
The Assam Government has dismissed Gogoi’s allegations as “politically motivated.”
An official from the state’s Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department said all contracts were awarded following due procedures.
“There’s no irregularity in the dairy projects. We welcome any investigation to prove our transparency,” the official said.
Financial Details Under Scrutiny
Gaurav Gogoi claims that over ₹250 crore has been allocated to dairy development schemes in Assam in the last three years.
He demanded a forensic audit of expenditure and beneficiary lists under these schemes.
He pointed to “alarming discrepancies” between official records and ground-level implementation.
Government’s Push for Dairy Growth
Despite the controversy, the Assam Government continues to promote dairy projects under initiatives such as:
- Rashtriya Gokul Mission
- Integrated Dairy Development Scheme
- Assam Milk Mission
These schemes are part of the broader goal to increase local milk production and reduce dependency on imports from other states.
Assam’s milk production was reported to be around 9 lakh metric tonnes in 2023-24, with plans to raise it significantly in the next five years.
Gaurav Gogoi Calls for CBI Probe
Gogoi has urged PM Modi to hand over the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
“Only an independent probe can ensure accountability,” he said.
He stressed that farmers deserve answers and clarity about where taxpayer money is going.
Political Impact in Assam: Gaurav Gogoi
The controversy comes at a time when Assam is preparing for local body elections.
Political observers believe Gogoi’s allegations could influence voter sentiment, particularly in rural areas dependent on agriculture and dairy.
The Congress has signaled it will make this issue a key plank in its campaign.
Public Reaction Over Gaurav Gogoi
Public opinion remains divided. Some farmer groups support Gogoi’s demand for transparency, while others accuse the Congress of politicizing development projects.
“The dairy sector is our livelihood. We want projects to continue but with honesty,” said Manab Deka, a dairy farmer from Nalbari.
As the Assam dairy project controversy unfolds, all eyes are on the Centre’s response to Gaurav Gogoi’s letter.
Whether PM Modi will order a probe could significantly influence both governance and political dynamics in Assam.
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