News Reporter
Assam CM Takes a Jibe at Akhil Gogoi, Suggests Bhupen Borah May Be Tilting Towards BJP
Guwahati, May 6: In a sharp political dig, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday mocked Raijor Dal chief Akhil Gogoi, saying that if Gogoi were to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he would first have to "divorce his wife and marry Raijor Dal again"—a metaphorical jibe indicating ideological incompatibility.
Addressing the media in Guwahati, CM Sarma dismissed any possibility of political alignment with Gogoi, who is known for his vocal opposition to the BJP-led government in Assam. The statement came in response to speculation over shifting political equations ahead of the 2026 Assam Assembly polls.
Bhupen Borah Hinting at BJP Leanings?
Sarma also stirred speculation around Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Bhupen Kumar Borah, hinting that Borah may be showing signs of warming up to the BJP. Referring to Borah’s recent comments about his willingness to use a government vehicle for traveling to Dispur, Sarma said:
“If Borah is ready to travel to Dispur in a government vehicle, it reflects his acceptance that BJP will continue to rule from there. That could also mean he’s preparing to switch sides.”
In contrast, Sarma lauded Leader of the Opposition Debabrata Saikia for maintaining a consistent political stance, saying Saikia has shown no such signs of political drift.
Crackdown on Pro-Pakistan Social Media Posts Intensifies
The Chief Minister also addressed the ongoing crackdown on anti-national elements operating via social media platforms. He confirmed that over 40 individuals have been arrested for allegedly promoting pro-Pakistan narratives or making anti-national comments online.
Sarma said that strong legal measures are being taken to curb such digital threats to national security. He revealed that several of the accused are being booked under the National Security Act (NSA), highlighting the state government's zero-tolerance policy toward seditious activity.
“We are committed to maintaining Assam’s integrity. Anyone promoting anti-India sentiments, especially in the name of free speech, will face serious consequences,” Sarma warned.
Political Climate Heats Up Ahead of Elections
These remarks come at a time when Assam’s political landscape is seeing increased activity, with parties preparing for both the 2026 Assembly elections and the outcome of the ongoing 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Sarma’s comments appear aimed at consolidating the BJP’s narrative while exposing rifts or inconsistencies in the opposition’s ranks.