Guwahati, March 29: Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Gaurav Gogoi on March 28 sharpened his attack on Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, questioning an earlier claim in which the latter had said he would not return home at night if he failed to provide “proof” in a past controversy.
Addressing a series of campaign meetings in Titabor Assembly constituency, Gogoi used the remark to frame a broader critique of the BJP-led government, asking, “He had said he wouldn’t go home at night if he failed to provide proof—so I want to ask, where does he sleep now?” The comment came as he campaigned for Congress candidate Pran Kurmi.
Gogoi described Kurmi as a senior leader from the tea community and a committed social worker, urging voters to unite behind him. He said support for Kurmi would represent respect for the dignity and development of the tea community, while also carrying forward the legacy of former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi.
Targeting governance, Gogoi alleged that the people of Assam are seeking relief from what he termed an “authoritarian government” and claimed the Chief Minister would be voted out. He accused the administration of practising “intimidation politics” linked to welfare schemes, alleging that some beneficiaries were being pressured to attend ruling party programmes.
He further criticised the government’s priorities, alleging closures of government schools alongside the expansion of liquor outlets, which he said has increased the burden on families and affected access to education. He also raised concerns over public healthcare, claiming shortages of doctors and medicines in government hospitals.
Gogoi credited Tarun Gogoi for his contributions to the state’s development and accused Sarma of undermining that legacy. He also alleged the spread of misinformation against him and criticised what he described as the politicisation of the former Chief Minister’s family.
Raising broader political issues, he questioned the lack of action against Badruddin Ajmal over alleged controversial remarks and accused the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance of selective politics. He also referred to past political promises, including remarks involving singer Zubeen Garg, questioning whether such commitments had been fulfilled.
Assuring voters, Gogoi said a Congress-led government would continue and improve welfare schemes, ensuring benefits reach women directly without political conditions. He urged the electorate to support Kurmi, presenting him as a leader capable of taking Titabor forward.
