Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Assam CM Amid Election Campaign

In a recent rally in Biswanath, Rahul Gandhi launched a fierce critique of Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, accusing him of corruption and divisive politics. He emphasized the need for unity among Assam's diverse communities and promised legal action against Sarma if Congress returns to power. Gandhi also highlighted the party's commitment to improving wages for tea garden workers and granting Scheduled Tribe status to certain communities. This visit marks his second in three days as the political landscape heats up ahead of the assembly elections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 5, 2026, 14:11 IST

Rahul Gandhi's Strong Critique of Himanta Biswa Sarma

Rahul Gandhi (centre), flanked by Gaurav Gogoi (left) and Jitendra Singh (right) during a public meeting in Karbi Anglong. (Photo:PTI)

Biswanath/Guwahati, Apr 5: As the Assam Assembly elections approach, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has intensified his criticism of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, accusing him of engaging in corrupt practices and fostering divisive politics.

During a rally in Biswanath, Gandhi labeled Sarma as 'the most corrupt chief minister in the nation' and claimed he promotes hatred. 'The chief minister of Assam spreads animosity and makes numerous false statements,' he asserted.

He further indicated that if Congress regains power, legal proceedings would be initiated against Sarma. 'No matter how much he tries to evade responsibility, he will ultimately be held accountable. He must seek forgiveness from the people of Assam, but there will be no forgiveness, and legal action will follow,' Gandhi stated.

Referencing Assam's cultural figures, Gandhi emphasized that the state is represented by icons like Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva, Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika, Gopinath Bordoloi, Azan Fakir, former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, and singer Zubeen Garg, who symbolize unity and harmony.

'Zubeen Garg dedicated his life to unifying Assam and never incited hatred. This is the essence of Assam's culture. However, current efforts are aimed at dividing the populace,' he remarked.

Highlighting the state's rich social diversity, Gandhi called for unity among various communities. 'People from different backgrounds and languages coexist here, and Assam's strength lies in its brotherhood and love,' he noted.

He also accused the state government of favoring a select few corporate entities, alleging that local land is being appropriated for business interests.

In this regard, he criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, claiming that Assam has become an 'ATM' for certain interests.

Gandhi reiterated the Congress manifesto's commitment to providing tea garden workers with a daily wage of Rs 450. 'We will ensure Rs 450 as daily wages for tea workers and grant Scheduled Tribe status to six communities,' he promised, asserting that the current government's previous commitments remain unfulfilled.

His statements contribute to the escalating verbal conflict between Congress and the BJP as the state approaches the final stages of campaigning.

This marks Gandhi's second visit to Assam within three days. Previously, on April 2, he addressed a rally in Karbi Anglong supporting Congress candidate Raton Engti, where he pledged to enhance autonomy for indigenous communities in Assam, vowing to fully implement Article 244(A) if Congress returns to power.

'Once Article 244(A) is enacted, no one from Guwahati will govern the people of Karbi Anglong. The authority to make decisions will lie with you,' he declared.