Congress MP Criticizes PM Modi for Ignoring Zubeen Garg During Assam Visit
Gaurav Gogoi's Strong Remarks on Prime Minister's Visit
Guwahati, Dec 21: Congress Member of Parliament Gaurav Gogoi has sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for neglecting to honor the late Assamese cultural figure Zubeen Garg during his recent two-day trip to Assam.
Speaking to a crowd in Majuli on Sunday, Gogoi pointed out that despite the Prime Minister's attendance at various events, he failed to mention Garg, whose passing has sparked significant public outcry and calls for justice throughout the state.
“Thousands of Assamese citizens rallied for justice for Zubeen da. You spent two days in Assam, yet did not take the time to visit Zubeen Kshetra in Sonapur. You could attend party functions, but not a place that holds profound emotional significance for the Assamese people,” Gogoi remarked.
He further questioned the Prime Minister's silence regarding Garg in his speeches.
“You criticized the Congress, and we accepted that. But not a single mention of justice for Zubeen da? This silence is deeply hurtful,” he stated.
Gogoi also raised concerns about Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who was present with the Prime Minister during the visit.
“Why didn’t the Chief Minister remind the Prime Minister to acknowledge Zubeen da? Who suggested that his name should be omitted? Who prepared the speech?” Gogoi inquired.
In contrast to Modi's visit, Gogoi highlighted that Rahul Gandhi had personally visited Zubeen Khetra, met with the family, and called for justice.
He also mentioned that Sonia Gandhi had sent a condolence letter to Garg’s family, including his wife Garima Saikia Garg.
Referring to Garg as “the voice of Assam,” Gogoi emphasized that ignoring him was not just a personal oversight but an affront to the sentiments of the Assamese community.
“The significance of Zubeen da in our hearts is unparalleled. Such disregard is tantamount to disrespecting the entire Assamese populace,” he asserted.
Reiterating the public's demands, Gogoi stated that the people of Assam seek justice for Garg and have been advocating for him to be posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna.
“In this context, the Prime Minister's indifference is entirely unacceptable,” he concluded.