Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a fierce attack on Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during a party workers’ meeting in Chaygaon on Tuesday, accusing him of large-scale corruption and misuse of state resources. Speaking to a packed gathering, Gandhi alleged that Sarma was “behaving like a raja (king)” and warned that he would soon “land in jail for corruption.”
“This is not a Congress prediction. It is the voice of the people of Assam. Mark my words, he will be arrested,” Gandhi said, accusing the BJP government in Assam of handing over land and public resources to corporate houses like Adani and Ambani.
Gandhi alleged that Sarma and his family had become the “agents of corporates” and were “stealing Assam’s resources day and night.” He particularly criticized the government for transferring land meant for the people for use in solar parks and resorts allegedly tied to big businesses.
Voter Roll Manipulation Fears Raised
In his address, Gandhi also raised concerns about potential manipulation of the voter list in Assam, suggesting that similar tactics were already in play in other BJP-ruled states like Maharashtra and Bihar. He urged Congress workers to remain vigilant and ensure that the voices of the people are not suppressed.
Himanta Biswa Sarma Hits Back
Reacting sharply, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma dismissed Gandhi’s remarks as “recycled” and lacking substance. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sarma wrote, “Rahul Gandhi visited Assam solely to criticise me, but ended up boosting my political stature. He should worry more about the criminal cases he is out on bail for.”
The Assam CM also mocked Gandhi’s accusations by questioning their credibility and reiterating that no evidence of wrongdoing had been proven against him.
Congress Shows Unity
The Chaygaon event also featured Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, who joined Gandhi in attacking the BJP government and lauded the leadership of Gaurav Gogoi in Assam. The leaders urged party workers to prepare for the 2026 Assembly elections with renewed energy and unity.
Political Context
Gandhi’s visit to Assam is part of Congress’ efforts to rebuild its base in the Northeast ahead of the upcoming electoral cycle. The Chaygaon speech marks a significant escalation in the Congress-BJP rivalry in Assam, particularly around allegations of corruption and land mismanagement.
As the 2026 elections approach, political observers expect more sharp exchanges between the two parties as they battle for influence in one of the BJP’s strongholds in the Northeast
