Guwahati, March 13: Himanta Biswa Sarma on March 12 alleged that senior Indian National Congress leader Pawan Khera had attempted to establish contact with militant groups in the state to influence the upcoming Assembly elections, claiming that several cases have been registered and investigations are currently underway.
Speaking to reporters in Guwahati, Sarma said three to four FIRs had already been filed against Khera over the alleged attempts to communicate with militant organisations operating in Assam.
“There are three to four cases already registered in the name of Pawan Khera for trying to contact some militant organisations in Assam to influence election results. Investigations are going on. Who will end up in jail—you will know after the elections,” the chief minister said.
The remarks came shortly after Khera accused Sarma of corruption and criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government in the state. The Congress leader had also called for what he described as an “apology tour” by the BJP over issues related to development and illegal infiltration.
The exchange marked the latest escalation in political tensions in the state ahead of the next elections to the Assam Legislative Assembly, which are expected to take place in March or April 2026.
Illegal immigration and border security are likely to remain key issues during the campaign, with the BJP seeking to retain power for a third consecutive term while the Congress aims to regain political ground in the state.
Officials have not yet released details regarding the FIRs mentioned by the chief minister, and no immediate response from Khera was available following the allegation.
