Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has sparked a political firestorm by making bold allegations against Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, questioning the citizenship of his children and seeking clarification about a 15-day visit to Pakistan.
Addressing a public rally in Assam, CM Sarma claimed that the children of Gaurav Gogoi, the Lok Sabha MP from Kaliabor, are not Indian citizens. He further added that Gogoi had recently spent 15 days in Pakistan, a country viewed with suspicion in Indian political discourse, especially during election season. The statements have drawn sharp reactions from the Congress party and have ignited intense debate across political and media circles.
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Himanta Sarma’s Allegations Stir Political Controversy
“Gaurav Gogoi should come clean. Where was he for 15 days in Pakistan? What was the purpose of that visit? Also, it must be clarified whether his children are Indian citizens or foreign nationals,” Sarma declared at a packed rally. He alleged that these issues go beyond politics and touch upon national security and transparency in public life.
While the Chief Minister did not provide direct evidence, he stated that “documents are being examined” and the people of Assam have the right to know the truth about those seeking their votes.
These remarks are being interpreted as part of the BJP’s aggressive election strategy in Assam, where the party is working to consolidate its position ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Congress Responds: “Desperate and Baseless”
The Congress party swiftly responded to Sarma’s comments, calling them “desperate, defamatory, and politically motivated.” A senior spokesperson for the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) said, “CM Sarma is trying to divert public attention from real issues like inflation, unemployment, and ethnic unrest. Gaurav Gogoi has not visited Pakistan. This is a complete lie.”
Gaurav Gogoi himself took to social media to deny the allegations, terming them a “fabricated distraction.” In a brief statement on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:
“When leaders fear losing, they abandon truth. I have never been to Pakistan, and my family’s integrity is beyond political attacks. Let us focus on Assam’s future, not on manufactured controversies.”
Who is Gaurav Gogoi?
Gaurav Gogoi, the son of former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, is a two-time MP and a prominent face of the Congress party in the Northeast. Known for his moderate political stance and vocal presence in Parliament, Gogoi is contesting from the Jorhat constituency in the ongoing elections after the party reshuffled its candidates.
His personal life has largely remained out of the political spotlight until now. However, with Himanta Biswa Sarma’s sudden public attack, attention has turned toward his family and travel records—a move that analysts believe is aimed at denting Gogoi’s clean image in the eyes of voters.
Rising Tensions in Assam’s Political Landscape
This latest episode reflects the high-stakes political battle unfolding in Assam, where both BJP and Congress are locked in a fierce fight over key constituencies. The use of personal allegations and citizenship questions also echoes broader national trends in political discourse where identity, nationalism, and foreign links are often used as political tools.
Observers note that such allegations, whether proven or not, can create long-term reputational damage, especially during election periods. While some voters may dismiss it as typical political mudslinging, others may demand more transparency from candidates.
A Controversy That Could Reshape Assam’s Poll Dynamics
The war of words between Himanta Biswa Sarma and Gaurav Gogoi adds yet another layer to the already charged electoral environment in Assam. As the Chief Minister hints at further disclosures and the Congress prepares for legal responses, the situation is poised to escalate in the coming days.
Whether these claims hold weight or fall apart under scrutiny, one thing is certain: the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Assam have taken a deeply personal and controversial turn.
