Political Tensions Rise in Assam Ahead of 2026 Assembly Elections
Voting Scheduled for April 9, 2026
The voting for the Assam Assembly elections is set to take place on April 9, 2026, just three days away. Both the BJP and Congress are intensifying their election campaigns. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is leading the BJP's efforts, while the Congress is under the leadership of state president Gaurav Gogoi. Key issues in the state include the Assamese versus outsiders debate, women's rights, corruption, unemployment, inflation, flooding, land disputes, and illegal immigration. Both parties are addressing these topics to garner public support.
Controversy Surrounding Political Figures' Wives
A significant topic of discussion in Assam, both in traditional media and on social platforms, involves the wives of two prominent political figures: Gaurav Gogoi's wife, Elizabeth Gogoi, and Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife, Rinki Bhuyan Sarma. The BJP has been accusing Gogoi's wife of having ties with Pakistan and its intelligence agency, while Congress has countered by raising questions about Rinki's possession of passports from three different countries.
Political Controversy Intensifies
As the elections approach, a major political controversy has erupted concerning Rinki Bhuyan Sarma. This issue has surfaced just three days before the voting date, focusing on allegations related to her passports, foreign assets, and financial transparency. Congress has leveled serious accusations against Rinki, implicating both the BJP and Home Minister Amit Shah. This controversy has shifted the narrative on social media and sparked discussions across Assam.
Allegations of Multiple Passports
Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi and Pawan Khera held a press conference in Guwahati and Delhi, respectively, where they claimed that Rinki possesses passports from three countries: the UAE, Egypt, and Antigua. This revelation has ignited a new political debate in Assam, becoming a focal point of the election discourse.
Questions Raised About Rinki's Passports
Pawan Khera, a senior Congress leader, questioned how an individual could hold multiple passports and why Rinki Bhuyan Sarma would need three. He suggested that this raises concerns about legality and national security, implying that such actions could indicate criminal intent.
Demand for Investigation
Khera has called for an investigation into the matter, asking whether Amit Shah is aware of Rinki's multiple passports and if he will initiate a probe into the allegations. He emphasized that the public deserves answers regarding the legality of these passports.
Property Allegations in Dubai
Khera further alleged that Rinki owns two properties in Dubai, which were not disclosed in Himanta Sarma's affidavit. He questioned why these assets were omitted, suggesting a lack of transparency.
Claims of Wealth and Business Ventures
Additionally, Congress claims that Rinki has a company in Wyoming, USA, with a budget of $3.467 billion, aimed at opening a hotel. The family's share of this wealth is reportedly around ₹52,000 crores. Khera accused Himanta of hiding money in shell companies and asserted that he should face legal consequences.
Accusations Against Gaurav Gogoi's Wife
On the other hand, Gaurav Gogoi's wife, Elizabeth Colburn Gogoi, has faced serious allegations from the BJP, claiming she worked for a Pakistani organization in the past. Himanta Sarma has accused her of being linked to Pakistani intelligence and sharing sensitive information.
Political Fallout
Both Himanta Biswa Sarma and Gaurav Gogoi have dismissed the allegations against their wives as unfounded. However, these controversies have sparked significant debate and political maneuvering in Assam as the elections draw near.