Citizens Unite Against Corruption in Assam: Upcoming Convention Announced

Guwahati Citizens' Convention to Address Agricultural Project Irregularities

Guwahati, July 3: In response to growing concerns regarding alleged discrepancies in the Garukhuti Agricultural Project, a coalition of concerned citizens, spearheaded by prominent intellectual Hiren Gohain and Rajya Sabha MP Ajit Kumar Bhuyan, gathered at the Guwahati Press Club on Thursday. They announced a two-day citizens’ convention set for July 5 and 6.

The event, named the “Assam United Citizens’ Convention,” aims to stimulate public dialogue on issues of corruption and misgovernance within the state. It will be hosted at ITA Machkhowa.

During the meeting, Gohain expressed strong disapproval of the state government's management of the Garukhuti project, particularly criticizing the procurement process for Gir cows.

“In 2021, the cost of a Gir cow was less than the current Rs 56,000, yet the government paid Rs 86,000 per cow. This is blatant corruption,” Gohain asserted.

He also highlighted discrepancies involving Sootea MLA Padma Hazarika, who is linked to the project.

“Padma Hazarika stated he did not request 300 Gir cows, as his farm can only hold 100. So why were 300 cows delivered?” Gohain questioned, advocating for expert assessment and proper documentation to validate such actions.

Ajit Bhuyan, the Rajya Sabha MP, supported Gohain’s assertions, indicating that Garukhuti represents merely a fraction of a larger issue.

“This is an extraordinary situation. Garukhuti is just one instance—numerous cases exist where the government has profited under the pretense of development,” he remarked, calling for a comprehensive investigation.

The convention will unfold over the weekend. On July 5, the organizers plan to release a white paper addressing the alleged misgovernance of the BJP government and present a formal demand charter. The discussions will also cover the changing political dynamics in Assam.

On July 6, the focus will shift to the involvement of civil society in state politics and the development of a strategy for the 2026 Assam Assembly elections.

The leaders encouraged citizens, civil society groups, and political entities to engage in the convention and unite against corruption and misgovernance.