Politics – Priyanka Gandhi Slams Assam CM Over Remarks on Gogoi
Politics – Senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday accused Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of engaging in divisive politics by targeting state Congress president Gaurav Gogoi and his family over alleged links with Pakistan. She said involving a political rival’s family members, particularly children, crosses the line of fair political discourse.
Speaking to reporters after visiting ‘Zubeen Khetra’ in Sonapur on the outskirts of Guwahati, Gandhi said the recent comments directed at Gogoi reflect what she described as “negative politics.”
Criticism Over Personal Attacks
Responding to questions about the Assam chief minister’s repeated allegations concerning Gogoi, Gandhi said there are broadly two approaches in public life — one that seeks constructive engagement and another that thrives on division. According to her, Gogoi represents a politics focused on harmony and positive engagement.
She maintained that criticism should remain within political boundaries and not extend to personal matters. “Targeting a leader’s family, especially children, is not acceptable,” she said, adding that voters in Assam are capable of discerning between substantive political debate and personal attacks.
The remarks come amid an escalating political exchange in the state, where the ruling party and the opposition Congress have accused each other of diverting attention from governance issues.
Call to Focus on Employment and Governance
Gandhi urged the Assam government to concentrate on issues affecting residents, particularly employment opportunities for young people and women. She said these concerns require urgent attention and should be at the center of political discussions.
Referring to governance in the state, she also alleged that corruption remains a serious issue. Without naming specific instances, she claimed that the people of Assam expect accountability and transparency from their leaders.
Her comments underline the Congress party’s broader strategy of highlighting economic and governance matters in its criticism of the state administration.
Tribute to Zubeen Garg
Earlier in the day, Gandhi visited the cremation site of noted Assamese singer Zubeen Garg at ‘Zubeen Khetra’ to pay her respects. She described the late artist as someone who transcended political divisions and spread a message of unity through his music.
According to Gandhi, the visit was intended solely as a tribute. “He stood above politics throughout his life,” she said, emphasizing that the memorial site should remain a place of respect rather than a venue for political activity.
Zubeen Garg, widely regarded as a cultural icon in Assam, built a career spanning music, film, and social engagement. His songs, many of which focus on identity and social harmony, have left a lasting impact on audiences across the region.
Growing Political Tensions in Assam
The exchange between the Congress and the ruling party reflects a period of heightened political friction in Assam. Allegations and counter-allegations have dominated public debate in recent weeks, with both sides accusing the other of straying from substantive policy discussions.
While the chief minister has defended his statements in earlier remarks, the Congress leadership has continued to frame the controversy as an example of what it calls divisive tactics.
Political observers note that such confrontations often intensify ahead of major electoral contests, as parties seek to consolidate their support bases. However, Gandhi’s comments suggest that the Congress intends to steer the conversation toward governance, employment, and alleged administrative shortcomings.
As the political debate unfolds, attention remains focused on how these exchanges may influence public opinion in the state. For now, the sharp remarks from both camps underscore the increasingly charged atmosphere in Assam’s political landscape.