Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has launched a sharp attack on the Assam government led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, accusing it of fostering corruption and lawlessness in the state. His remarks came amid fresh controversy involving a BJP legislator over alleged commissions in land deals.
In a post on social media platform X, Gogoi said, “Another hour, another controversial BJP leader close to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is in the news for the wrong reasons.” He went on to allege that practices such as charging commissions in land transactions, theft of Food Corporation of India (FCI) grain, encroachment on tribal land, and the operation of cow and coal syndicates reflected what he described as “gundaraj in Assam” under the present government.
The Congress leader asserted that his party would “remove these people from power in four months from today,” using the hashtag #NatunAxom (New Assam).
Gogoi’s comments follow a political storm around Palasbari BJP MLA Hemanga Thakuria, after an audio clip allegedly featuring him discussing commissions for land transactions surfaced on social media. The clip has triggered widespread debate across Assam.
According to the allegations circulating online, the audio includes references to land brokering and demands for commissions amounting to several lakh rupees, including a purported claim of Rs 8 lakh per bigha. The speaker in the recording is also heard making remarks about remaining an MLA for 25 years and repeatedly referring to personal “benefit,” raising questions about ethical conduct in public office.
Hemanga Thakuria has denied the allegations, dismissing the audio clip as manipulated and politically motivated. He said he was being targeted because of development initiatives in the Palasbari constituency, including road projects and proposals related to an Indian Institute of Management.
The controversy has intensified political sparring between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress, with calls growing for clarity and accountability as the debate continues.
