Assam CM Faces Backlash Over Controversial Remarks

Opposition Critiques Chief Minister's Statements

Guwahati, Apr 16: Opposition figures in Assam have vehemently criticized Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for his recent comments, questioning his "mental stability" and labeling him as an "autocrat filled with arrogance" and a "psychological case".

In a televised interview, Sarma addressed various topics, including allegations made by Congress leader Pawan Khera regarding his spouse, issues of infiltration and pushback operations, India-Bangladesh relations, and remarks about Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition.

When approached for a response, the BJP opted not to comment on Sarma's statements or the interview's content.

Debabrata Saikia, the leader of the opposition in the Assam Assembly, condemned Sarma's comments as undemocratic and irrelevant, asserting that they undermine the dignity associated with the chief minister's role. He described Sarma's remarks as arbitrary and oppressive, expressing shame over the situation.

Saikia further stated that Sarma's interview reflects a loss of respect for democratic principles and constitutional institutions due to his "arrogance of power".

"We categorically oppose his statements. There is evident hypocrisy and disrespect towards the Assam Police. During the Zubeen Garg incident, the CM claimed that Assam Police surpassed even Singapore's police force. Now, he disparages the same force to mask his political failures," Saikia remarked.

On the topic of illegal immigrant deportation, Sarma mentioned the absence of an extradition treaty between India and Bangladesh, explaining that Assam conducts pushback operations "under the cover of darkness" in border regions lacking security presence from the neighboring country.

He also expressed a desire for India-Bangladesh relations to remain strained, arguing that Assam encounters challenges when the two nations grow closer.

Saikia responded by labeling this as an admission of "illegal actions" and criticized Sarma's comments as irresponsible regarding foreign policy.

"A Chief Minister has openly wished for deteriorating relations between India and Bangladesh! His acknowledgment of pushback operations 'under the cover of darkness' is a severe mockery of national security and international law," he added.

Sarma also referred to Rahul Gandhi as "mad" and suggested he needed "treatment" based on an analysis from an AI tool.

Saikia condemned this as a display of political indecorum, stating, "The CM's derogatory remarks towards the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha demonstrate his political bankruptcy. Insulting a national leader through references to an AI application raises questions about the CM's own mental stability."

Additionally, Sarma announced plans to file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) against the Election Commission post-election to ensure the "purity of democracy".

Lurinjyoti Gogoi, president of the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), also criticized Sarma, labeling his comments as "imbalanced" and "illogical". He remarked, "This is a psychological case. A Chief Minister is making unscientific and illogical statements."

Gogoi asserted that Sarma appears "frustrated" and is attempting to create an "exit strategy" by misleading the public ahead of the election results scheduled for May 4.

"His remarks regarding infiltration pushback indicate that the India-Bangladesh border is porous, allowing free movement," he added.

Concerning Sarma's comments on bilateral relations with Bangladesh, Gogoi stated, "His statement poses a threat to national security, and the Prime Minister should take appropriate action against him. Maintaining positive international relations with neighboring countries is essential for standard global diplomacy."