Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday alleged that the material used in the recent press conference held by Congress leaders Pawan Kheda and Gaurav Gogoi belonged to a Pakistani social media group, further intensifying the political tussle ahead of the assembly elections in the state.
Addressing a press conference in Guwahati, Sarma said, “Yesterday Pawan Khera and Gaurav Gogoi held two press conferences, one in Delhi and one in Guwahati. During our investigation we found that the entire content of the press conference held yesterday was provided by a Pakistani social media group.”
He also claimed that Pakistan has increased interest in the upcoming elections in Assam and in supporting the Congress.
The Chief Minister said, “In the last 10 days, Pakistani channels have done at least 11 talk shows on Assam elections, which had never happened before. And in every talk show, the same conclusion has been drawn that Congress should win. Pakistan’s connection with yesterday’s press conference has also become very clear now.”
Sarma further said, “I am confident that the law enforcement agency will look into this.”
The chief minister also warned of legal consequences and alleged that opposition leaders used “fake documents” to influence public opinion.
Sarma said, “Normally, when you raise an issue with the public with fabricated documents, sections 420 and 468 of the IPC are applicable. Of course, there is a provision for correspondence in the new BNS. When you use these charges with fabricated documents to influence the outcome of an election, higher penal provisions are applicable, and it is punishable with life imprisonment.”
He further informed that his wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma has lodged a complaint with the police. He said, “Yesterday my wife has lodged an FIR and I am confident that the police will register a case under appropriate sections of the law and take necessary action.”
The controversy stems from allegations made by Khera, who claimed that Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sharma, holds multiple passports and has some secret business interests abroad. He also alleged that properties in Dubai and companies in the United States were linked to the chief minister’s family.
Earlier, responding to these claims, Sarma had categorically denied the allegations and said that one of the passports mentioned was “fake” and pointed out discrepancies in the documents. He said confirmation from Dubai authorities and the Indian government showed that the passport in question was not genuine.
However, Khera says more evidence will be presented to prove his claims and has raised questions about whether Sarma had disclosed all his assets in his election affidavit. Meanwhile, Gogol has also demanded an investigation into the allegations, further escalating the political conflict.
These allegations have come to light at a time when assembly elections are going to be held in Assam in a single phase on April 9, in which voting will be held on 126 assembly seats across the state. Counting of votes will take place on May 4.
