Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Gaurav Gogoi has intensified his party’s attack on Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, alleging corruption in the state and calling for a formal investigation into the Chief Minister’s alleged links with businessman Shyamkanu Mahanta.
Speaking at an election rally in Sarupathar in Golaghat district, Gogoi addressed party workers and local residents who had gathered in support of Congress candidate Jiban Chutia. In his speech, he raised concerns over what he described as a growing nexus between political power and select business interests in the state. He said the allegations surrounding Shyamkanu Mahanta should be examined through an independent and transparent probe so that the truth can come out in the public domain.
Gogoi also accused the BJP-led government in Assam of promoting what he termed a “syndicate system.” According to him, this system allows a few groups to control key sectors with political backing, while common people are left to deal with rising costs and limited access to basic services. He claimed that such a structure affects fair governance and creates inequality in the distribution of resources.
Referring to the BJP’s long-standing claims of development in Assam, the Congress leader said that many people across the state are still facing problems such as unemployment, price rise, and gaps in public service delivery. He stated that despite repeated promises, several welfare schemes have not reached the people who need them the most. Gogoi added that there is a growing gap between what is announced and what is actually delivered on the ground.
During his address, Gogoi also questioned the conduct of the Chief Minister, alleging that certain remarks made on public platforms do not reflect the dignity expected from someone holding such a high office. He said public life requires responsibility and accountability, and leaders should be careful in both words and actions.
Outlining his party’s position, Gogoi said that if the Congress comes to power in the state, it will take steps to dismantle the alleged syndicate network within a fixed time frame. He added that his party would ensure a fair and time-bound investigation into all corruption-related allegations, including those linked to Shyamkanu Mahanta. According to him, restoring transparency in governance would be a key priority.
He further said that the Congress aims to promote inclusive governance where benefits of government schemes reach all sections of society without bias. He stressed the need for strengthening grassroots participation in decision-making, claiming that the current system has become too centralised and does not adequately reflect local concerns.
Gogoi also raised other issues during his speech, including ongoing border-related concerns, rising prices of essential commodities, and what he described as a lack of effective response to public grievances. He said these issues continue to affect daily life and require urgent attention from the government.
The rally at Sarupathar is part of a broader campaign by the Congress across Assam as political activity intensifies ahead of the upcoming elections. Leaders from both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress have stepped up their outreach, focusing on key issues and attempting to connect with voters at the grassroots level.