Politics – Assam Row Intensifies as Police Probe Targets Congress Leader Khera
Politics – A fresh political confrontation has emerged in Assam after Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma alleged that Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera left Guwahati and travelled to Hyderabad while police teams attempted to reach him for questioning. The development comes a day after a case was filed based on allegations made by Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.
Police Action and Allegations
According to official sources, a team from Assam Police visited Khera’s residence in Delhi in connection with the case. As part of protocol, the visiting officers informed the local police authorities, who then extended assistance during the process. Officials indicated that the purpose of the visit was to question Khera regarding statements made during recent press briefings.
Speaking at a public gathering, the chief minister claimed that Khera had departed from Guwahati shortly before the police action. He added that information about Khera’s presence in Hyderabad had surfaced through media reports, and emphasized that the matter would be handled strictly according to legal procedures.
Controversy Triggered by Press Conferences
The situation escalated after the Congress held press conferences in both Delhi and Guwahati, where senior leaders raised allegations concerning Riniki Bhuyan Sarma. During these briefings, party representatives claimed that she possessed multiple international passports and had business interests and properties outside India.
The claims included references to alleged links with countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Antigua and Barbuda. Additionally, Congress leaders pointed to reported property ownership in Dubai and business registration in the United States, suggesting the need for further scrutiny.
Government Rejects Claims as Baseless
In response, the chief minister strongly denied the accusations, stating that the information presented by the opposition was incorrect and misleading. He asserted that the claims were based on unreliable sources, including material circulating on foreign social media platforms.
Sarma described the allegations as an attempt to influence voters ahead of the upcoming elections. He also indicated that spreading such claims could have legal consequences, especially if proven to be false or fabricated.
Legal Response from Riniki Bhuyan Sarma
Riniki Bhuyan Sarma defended her decision to file a formal complaint, stating that the nature of the allegations was serious and could not be ignored. She maintained that the accusations had the potential to damage her reputation and therefore required a legal response.
She further suggested that the opposition’s actions reflected political pressure and urgency in the run-up to the elections. Expressing confidence in the legal system, she said that the truth would emerge through due process.
Political Context Ahead of Elections
The controversy has unfolded just days before voting is scheduled in Assam. The state is set to go to the polls on April 9, with counting of votes planned for May 4. The timing of the dispute has added to the already charged political atmosphere, with both major parties intensifying their campaigns.
Observers note that such developments could influence public discourse during the final phase of electioneering. While the ruling party has framed the issue as a case of misinformation, the opposition continues to press for accountability and transparency.
As investigations proceed, attention remains focused on how the legal and political aspects of the case evolve in the coming days.