Controversy Erupts During Jan Ashirwad Yatra Over Zubeen Garg Justice Demand
Tensions Rise in Sorbhog During Yatra
Guwahati, March 25: The eighth day of the 'Jan Ashirwad Yatra' became contentious in Sorbhog on Wednesday when two individuals, allegedly affiliated with the BJP, reportedly seized and destroyed placards held by students advocating for justice for the beloved Assamese cultural figure, Zubeen Garg.
This incident unfolded during the second phase of the yatra, which is being led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Four students, who identified themselves as passionate fans of the singer, staged a brief protest along the route, displaying handwritten placards to highlight their demands.
According to representatives from student organizations, tensions escalated when the placards were forcibly taken and ripped apart by the alleged BJP supporters.
Following the incident, a representative from the Barnagar Regional Student Union held a press conference, clarifying that the protesters were not linked to any political party or organization and were merely expressing their desire for justice.
“During the Jan Ashirwad Yatra in Sorbhog, four students sought justice for Zubeen Garg with their placards. They were simply fans of the late cultural icon and had no political affiliations. However, some BJP workers forcibly took and destroyed their placards,” the student leader stated.
In response to the incident, student leaders condemned the actions and demanded immediate police intervention against those responsible, calling for a comprehensive investigation to prevent similar occurrences during public events.
“We strongly denounce this behavior and urge the police to swiftly apprehend those involved. We also appeal to the Chief Minister to acknowledge this incident and ensure it does not happen again,” he added.
This development follows the yatra's transition into its second phase, with the Chief Minister campaigning in the Bhawanipur–Sorbhog area on the seventh day.
Throughout the yatra, CM Sarma has been supporting BJP candidate Ranjit Dass and addressing public gatherings to promote development initiatives while seeking voter support ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.