Assam CM Accuses Congress of Exploiting Zubeen Garg for Political Gain
Political Allegations Surrounding Zubeen Garg
Guwahati, March 31: Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam, has accused the Congress party of manipulating the cultural figure Zubeen Garg for political purposes. He claims that a political consultancy firm has advised Congress to use this issue to gain an advantage in the upcoming Assembly elections.
During a press conference held at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Bhawan, where the BJP's manifesto was unveiled, Sarma presented evidence of a viral video that allegedly shows members of the firm, Inclusive Mind, suggesting that Congress should frequently mention Garg in their campaign.
Sarma stated that this meeting occurred on March 16, and the video has been circulating on social media since then.
He remarked, “Inclusive Mind has indicated that Zubeen’s issue should be highlighted as much as possible, claiming it is essential for securing seats. We possess video evidence, and individuals present have shared the visuals with us.”
Issuing a stern warning, Sarma described this as a “conspiracy” and vowed that strict measures would be taken if he returns to power. “If I am elected Chief Minister again, we will apprehend all members of Inclusive Mind for their conspiratorial actions,” he asserted.
Sarma urged Congress to stop involving the singer in political matters, reiterating Garg's own words, “politics nokoriba bondhu.” He advised Gaurav Gogoi and Rokibul Hussain against politicizing Zubeen.
He further accused Congress of including references to Garg in their manifesto to manipulate public sentiment.
“Congress has sinned by dragging Zubeen Garg into its manifesto. He is cherished by many; exploiting him for electoral gain is deeply upsetting,” Sarma stated.
Touching upon the ongoing legal proceedings regarding the mysterious death of Garg in Singapore, Sarma mentioned that the case is currently before a fast-track court.
“Congress has questioned why a fast-track court has not been established. They are unaware that the process is already underway. I hope for a resolution within a month,” he added.
He criticized Congress leaders for what he termed selective politics, questioning their visits to Zubeen Kshetra only when it aligns with their electoral interests. “Why don’t they visit Bhupen Hazarika’s samadhi or Swahid Smarak Khetra? This reflects their political motives,” Sarma remarked.
In a separate critique, Sarma targeted APCC president Gaurav Gogoi, questioning his alleged foreign assets and travels.
“I call upon Gaurav Gogoi to reveal details about his properties in Britain and Pakistan. His affidavit to the Election Commission does not disclose his wife’s salary from Pakistan or any associated bank accounts,” Sarma alleged.
He also noted that a recent discussion on a Pakistani television channel referenced Gogoi’s visit, raising concerns about its context.
“Just two days ago, a debate on a Pakistani TV channel mentioned Gaurav Gogoi’s visit as part of some NGO activity, which raises questions since he previously claimed it was a private trip,” Sarma concluded.