Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi on Sunday reacted strongly to a controversial remark allegedly made by Rezaul Karim Sarkar, warning that any deliberate attempt to provoke social or political tension would be firmly opposed. Gogoi’s reaction came after Sarkar, who formally joined the Indian National Congress earlier in the day, was quoted as saying that he would “turn Sivasagar into Dhubri and Dhubri into Sivasagar.” The remark triggered sharp political reactions, particularly in Upper Assam, where Sivasagar holds strong cultural and historical importance. Speaking to the media, Akhil Gogoi said that the nature of the statement needed to be clearly understood. He stated that if the remark was made unintentionally or without any deeper meaning, it could be viewed differently. However, he cautioned that if the comment was deliberate and aimed at provoking divisions, it would be opposed in the strongest possible terms.
“The intention behind such statements matters,” Gogoi said. “If it was a mistake, that is one thing. But if it was said deliberately to create confusion or tension, then it will not be accepted.”The Sivasagar legislator also raised questions about Sarkar’s political associations and influence. Gogoi said that Sarkar must first break what he described as his close links with the Chief Minister. He alleged that during eviction drives in different parts of Assam, whenever questions are raised before the Chief Minister, the response often includes references to consultations with Rezaul Karim Sarkar and the All Assam Minority Students’ Union.
According to Gogoi, such references point to a level of influence that needs to be clearly explained to the public. He said transparency is important, especially when sensitive issues like evictions and rehabilitation are involved.The remarks by Gogoi came on a politically significant day, as Rezaul Karim Sarkar, a former president of AAMSU, officially joined the Congress party ahead of the 2026 Assam Assembly elections. Sarkar’s entry into the Congress is being seen as part of the party’s efforts to strengthen its organisational base and expand outreach among minority and indigenous communities.