Guwahati: Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi on Wednesday alleged that more than 12,000 bighas of land across Assam are registered in the name of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his family members. The claim was made during a political outreach initiative announced by the Congress in Guwahati, escalating the confrontation between the ruling BJP and the opposition ahead of elections.
Gogoi urged citizens to share information about what he termed “illegitimate land holdings” of the Chief Minister and his family through a dedicated website launched by the Congress, saying the party would compile and examine the submissions.
Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi has alleged that over 12,000 bighas of land across the state are held in the name of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his family. Announcing a party-run website in Guwahati, Gogoi invited the public to submit information on alleged land holdings, intensifying political tensions in Assam.
Allegations Made at Guwahati-Focused Outreach
Addressing party supporters and the media, Gogoi claimed the alleged land holdings span multiple parts of Assam. He said the Congress has launched an online platform to collect information from the public regarding properties they believe are unlawfully held by the Chief Minister and his relatives.
The Congress leader maintained that the initiative is aimed at bringing transparency to land ownership issues and encouraging public participation.
Congress Pledge if Voted to Power
Gogoi further declared that if the Congress comes to power in Assam, the party would take over such land holdings and redistribute them among the poor. He said land inequality remains a critical issue in the state and alleged that those in power have benefited disproportionately.
The statement forms part of the Congress’s broader political narrative targeting the BJP-led government on issues of governance, land rights, and alleged misuse of authority.
Political Reaction in Guwahati
The allegations triggered sharp reactions in Guwahati’s political circles, with ruling party leaders dismissing the claims as politically motivated. No official response or verification regarding the land ownership allegations has been released by the Chief Minister or his office at the time of reporting.
Political observers in the city noted that land ownership and encroachment have become increasingly sensitive topics in Assam, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas around Guwahati.
Context of Escalating Political Tensions
The allegations come a day after Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced his intent to initiate civil and criminal defamation proceedings against senior Congress leaders over statements made at a press conference. The parallel developments indicate a rapidly intensifying political confrontation between the ruling party and the opposition.
Analysts say Guwahati, as Assam’s administrative and media centre, is likely to remain the focal point of such political exchanges in the coming months.
What Happens Next
It remains unclear how Congress plans to verify the information submitted through its website or whether the allegations will translate into formal complaints or legal action. Observers expect strong rebuttals and possible legal responses as the issue develops.
For now, the claims remain allegations, with no independent verification placed on record.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly did Gaurav Gogoi allege?
He alleged that over 12,000 bighas of land across Assam are registered in the name of the Chief Minister and his family, a claim that has not been independently verified.
Has the Chief Minister responded to the allegations?
As of now, no official response from the Chief Minister or his office addressing these specific claims has been issued.