Intensifying Political Rivalry in Assam Ahead of Elections

As the Assam Assembly elections near, the political rivalry between Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Congress president Gaurav Gogoi intensifies. Accusations of land grabbing and allegations of financial misconduct are exchanged, highlighting the escalating tensions. Sarma's claims about Gogoi's family and the Congress's outdated strategies add fuel to the fire. With the BJP's campaign initiatives underway, both parties are ramping up their efforts to sway voters. This political showdown sets the stage for a heated electoral battle in Assam.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 5, 2026, 13:36 IST

Political Tensions Rise in Assam

Guwahati, Feb 5: As the Assam Assembly elections approach, the political clash between Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi has escalated, with both leaders exchanging sharp accusations.

Following Gogoi's claims that Sarma's family has illegally acquired approximately 12,000 bighas of land, Sarma announced plans for legal action against prominent Congress figures. In response, he accused the Rajiv Bhawan, the Congress headquarters, of becoming a significant anti-Assamese center.

Sarma stated, “A person associated with Gaurav Gogoi has authored a book asserting that Assamese people originated from outside the state, claiming that Miyas are the true natives. This individual is a close associate of Gogoi. I will disclose more details on February 8,” during the launch of the BJP’s Booth Vijay Abhiyan in Jalukbari.

Additionally, Sarma alleged that Gogoi's family maintains active bank accounts in Pakistan. “I’m merely hinting at this. You should inquire with Gaurav Gogoi about the number of bank accounts his family holds in Pakistan. Their accounts are still operational there, and I will elaborate on this on February 8,” he remarked.

In reaction to the Congress's initiative to create a website titled ‘Who Is HBS’ to gather public information regarding his assets, Sarma dismissed the effort as outdated. “The era of websites has passed. We are now in the age of AI and apps. The Congress still perceives Assamese people as backward,” he commented.

Challenging the Congress's vision for development, Sarma expressed confusion over what kind of progress the party envisions for Assam. “We have halted rhino poaching. Do they desire a return to the days of rhino killings? We have created jobs without corruption. What kind of development do they seek? If given the opportunity, they would undo our progress,” he asserted.

As part of the election preparations, Sarma officially launched the BJP’s Booth Bijoy Abhiyan at booth number 32 in Jalukbari, emphasizing that the campaign is being implemented across all Assembly constituencies in the state.

“Through this initiative, BJP members will distribute stickers, party flags, and a booklet showcasing 50 government achievements. If a family declines, our workers will respect their wishes and seek permission before distributing anything,” Sarma added.

As the elections draw near, this exchange highlights the intensifying political landscape in Assam, with both parties ramping up their outreach and rhetoric in anticipation of the polls.