Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused the Congress party of allegedly planning to create incidents of violence involving its own leaders in order to gain public sympathy ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. He also said that one person connected to the alleged plan has already been arrested and the investigation is ongoing.
Speaking to reporters during an official programme in Bongaigaon, the Chief Minister said that Guwahati Police had received a complaint from a person linked to the Congress party itself. According to Sarma, the complaint mentioned that there was a plan to “stage a fight” as part of a political strategy. He claimed that such incidents were being planned to create a dramatic situation that could influence public opinion before the elections.
The Chief Minister said that, in view of the information received, the security of Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Gaurav Gogoi has been increased as a precautionary step. He also stated that more details about the case would be made public in the next four to five days as the investigation progresses.
Sarma further alleged that two officials associated with a political consultancy firm named Inclusive Minds, which has reportedly been working with the Congress, were involved in planning various activities for the party. He claimed that the consultancy officials prepare plans while the party carries them out.
According to the Chief Minister, the complaint was filed by one of the persons allegedly involved in the planning process, who later decided to inform the police. Sarma said that the individual stated he could not support such activities and therefore chose to come forward with the information.
Police officials have confirmed that one person was arrested early Tuesday morning in connection with the case, while another individual has been served a notice. Authorities have started an investigation and are examining all details related to the complaint. Officials have indicated that more information will be shared once the inquiry moves further.
The Chief Minister’s statement came shortly after Gaurav Gogoi had earlier claimed that he was not receiving the level of security normally provided to state Congress presidents. Gogoi had also said that some well-wishers had warned him about a possible attack, raising concerns about his safety.
