Assam CM Criticizes Akhil Gogoi Ahead of Assembly Elections

Political Tensions Rise in Assam

Guwahati, March 29: On Sunday, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched a fierce critique of Raijor Dal leader Akhil Gogoi, referencing the tragic self-immolation of KMSS activist Pranab Boro from 2014 to challenge Gogoi’s political integrity as the Assembly elections approach.

During a press conference in Diphu, Sarma accused Gogoi of being complicit in the events that led to Boro’s tragic death amid a protest organized by the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS).

“From what I understand, Akhil Gogoi is accountable for Pranab Boro's death. It is well-known that Boro set himself on fire during a KMSS-led protest in the heart of Guwahati. He had been contemplating this drastic action since the previous night,” Sarma stated.

The Chief Minister also criticized Gogoi's comments regarding BJP candidate Kushal Dowari in Sivasagar, highlighting Dowari's electoral history.

“Kushal Dowari is not a newcomer to politics. The residents of Demow have elected him as their MLA twice. If Akhil Gogoi labels him unqualified or disparages him, does that imply the voters of Demow made a poor decision? Is he questioning the intelligence of the electorate?” Sarma remarked.

This exchange has heightened the political rivalry in Upper Assam, where Gogoi and BJP candidates are engaged in a crucial electoral contest.

The mention of Pranab Boro refers to the incident in February 2014, when the KMSS activist doused himself in petrol and ignited himself during a protest in Guwahati.

The demonstration, led by KMSS, sought land rights for approximately 85,000 families living in Assam's hilly regions.

Boro ultimately succumbed to his injuries, igniting widespread outrage and discussions regarding protest tactics.

At that time, Akhil Gogoi was a prominent figure in the movement, which rallied significant support from peasants and landless individuals throughout the state.