The Assam Congress on Tuesday strongly rejected claims by controversial social media figure Sikha Sarma that the party was conspiring to deny her bail, with senior leaders alleging she was acting as a “surrogate voice” of the BJP amid the ongoing Guwahati-based legal proceedings.
The political reaction came as Sikha Sarma was produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate of Kamrup district after being detained by Guwahati Police.
The developments have intensified political and legal tensions in Guwahati following Sarma’s arrest over derogatory remarks related to late music icon Zubeen Garg.
What the Congress said
Senior Congress spokesperson Barnali Phukan said Sikha Sarma’s allegation that the Congress was behind the denial of her bail was baseless. She alleged that Sarma was speaking on behalf of the BJP, claiming the ruling party was using her to make statements it could not make openly.
Strong remarks from Congress leadership
Reacting to the controversy, Barnali Phukan condemned Sikha Sarma’s statements, calling them “shameful and unacceptable.”
- Phukan alleged Sarma was acting as a “surrogate of the BJP.”
- She said remarks made against Zubeen Garg after his death were deeply offensive
- She asserted that such comments deserved strict legal action
“The BJP cannot say such things directly, so they speak through people like Sikha Sarma,” Phukan alleged while addressing the media.
Rejection of bail conspiracy claim
Phukan categorically dismissed Sikha Sarma’s claim that the Congress party was influencing the legal process to block her bail.
She stated that:
- Congress has consistently demanded justice in matters linked to Zubeen Garg
- The party has no role in judicial decisions
- Allegations of political conspiracy are an attempt to deflect accountability
“The Congress has always stood for justice and will continue to do so,” she said.
Legal developments in Guwahati
Meanwhile, Sikha Sarma was produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Court, Kamrup, after being detained by the police.
- She was taken to court directly from the Panbazar Women’s Police Station
- The case is being handled under the jurisdiction of the Guwahati Police
- Further judicial proceedings are expected in the coming days
Officials have not yet disclosed the next date of the hearing.
Why this matters for Guwahati
The case has become a major flashpoint in Guwahati, combining:
- Public outrage linked to remarks against a cultural icon
- Active police and court proceedings in the city
- Escalating political exchanges between parties
With repeated protests, FIRs, and court appearances centred in Guwahati, the city remains at the heart of the unfolding controversy.
What happens next
Legal proceedings will continue before the Kamrup district court, while political reactions are expected to intensify as the case develops. Police sources said further action will depend on court directions and investigation outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Who accused Sikha Sarma of being a BJP surrogate?
Senior Assam Congress spokesperson Barnali Phukan made the allegation.
Q2. Where was Sikha Sarma produced in court?
Before the Chief Judicial Magistrate of Kamrup district in Guwahati.
Q3. What claim did Congress reject?
The claim that Congress was conspiring to deny Sikha Sarma bail.