Rejaul Karim Sarkar Clarifies Controversial Remarks Amid Political Backlash

Political Stir Following Sarkar's Comments

Guwahati, Jan 12: In the wake of his comments that sparked a political uproar, Rejaul Karim Sarkar, who recently joined the Congress party, issued an apology and clarification on Monday. He stated that his remarks during a public address had been misconstrued, emphasizing that his intention was to promote unity and development throughout Assam.

Sarkar explained that the controversy arose from a specific line in his speech regarding equitable development across different regions. He mentioned, “I spoke about a united Assam and the need for balanced development. I said, ‘Sivasagar’s development should reflect in Dhubri and vice versa.’ Many have raised concerns about this statement, but my goal was to advocate for progress through unity.”

He further clarified that his comments were not intended to create negative comparisons between districts or suggest any changes to the identity of regions. “I did not mean to imply that Sivasagar should become like Dhubri,” he added.

Addressing the situation, Sarkar acknowledged that his inexperience in politics might have led to misunderstandings. “As a newcomer to the political arena, I recognize that my words may have been miscommunicated. My primary message was about fostering unity for a greater Assam,” he admitted, noting that his phrasing might not have effectively conveyed his intent.

The backlash from his remarks was swift, with the BJP criticizing him, TAYPA issuing a warning, and the Congress party acknowledging a “communication lapse.”

Debabrata Saikia, the Leader of Opposition, remarked that Sarkar’s statement was poorly expressed and did not align with the Congress party's views. “There have been prior controversies involving him, which I had opposed. It seems there was a miscommunication in what he intended to convey. I was not present at the event,” Saikia stated.

The Congress party recognized that while Sarkar may have aimed to discuss the concept of Bor Assam (Greater Assam), both the wording and delivery of his comments were inappropriate.

Saikia distanced the party from Sarkar’s remarks, asserting that such opinions are not acceptable within Congress. “Sarkar is a new member, and it would be wise for him to refrain from making such statements in the future. He has apologized on social media, but he could have articulated the concept of Bor Assam more effectively. His public speaking experience is likely limited,” he noted.

Rejecting any claims of demographic implications behind his comments, Saikia stated that Sarkar had never suggested inviting foreign nationals. “I have not heard him mention anything about bringing Bangladeshi nationals to Sivasagar or Tinsukia. People are misinterpreting his statements to create unnecessary panic,” he said, while acknowledging that Sarkar's previous comments had also stirred controversy.

Saikia further accused Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of politicizing the situation.

In response, Chief Minister Sarma firmly dismissed the Congress's explanation, asserting that Sarkar’s remarks were unrelated to Bor Assam.

“This is not about Bor Assam. If he intended to discuss it, he should have referenced Sankardeva’s values. Can Sivasagar be transformed into Dhubri as part of Bor Assam?” Sarma questioned.

The Chief Minister also claimed that Sarkar’s family origins are outside Assam. “His parents came from Mymensingh and Rangpur in Bangladesh. Are there not enough people in Sivasagar to discuss Bor Assam? Is Sarkar necessary for this?” he asked.

Meanwhile, the Tai Ahom Yuba Parishad, Assam (TAYPA), condemned Sarkar’s comments and criticized the Congress leadership’s reaction.

A TAYPA member alleged that Dhubri has experienced demographic shifts due to infiltration. “Dhubri was once home to Koch Rajbongshis, but the influx of Bangladeshi Muslim nationals has altered the demographic landscape. If Sarkar contributes to Congress and they form the government, does it imply that Ahom people will be displaced in Sivasagar?” he questioned.

Issuing a warning, the organization stated, “If Sarkar is not removed or boycotted within a week, Congress will not only jeopardize its chances of forming the government but also its credibility as an opposition party.”