Congress accuses Himanta of divisive politics, demands public apology

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 1, 2025

The Congress party has strongly criticized Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his recent remarks, alleging that they are inflammatory and could incite communal tension. Senior advocate and Congress leader HRA Choudhury on Tuesday condemned Sarma’s statement that the BJP was founded to “eliminate” individuals like Dilwar Hussain Mozumdar and Mahbabul Hoque, calling it illegal and a direct threat to a specific community.

Addressing a press conference at Rajiv Bhawan, Choudhury accused the Chief Minister of stoking religious tensions for political gain. “For days now, he has been making divisive statements that could lead to communal clashes in Assam. A leader holding a constitutional post should not be indulging in such rhetoric,” he said.

Choudhury also took issue with Sarma’s repeated references to allegations of corruption in the Assam Cooperative Apex Bank, claiming that the Chief Minister was selectively targeting individuals. “If someone is accused of wrongdoing, it is the judiciary’s responsibility to decide—not the Chief Minister’s. His comments suggest he wants to dictate justice instead of letting the courts do their job,” he stated.

Choudhury further criticized Sarma’s use of the phrase “khotom koraa,” which translates to “eliminate” or “finish off,” saying it implied violent intent. “No one, not even a Chief Minister, has the power to ‘eliminate’ anyone. Only the courts can pass judgments. His statement exposes a dangerous mindset,” he added.

The Congress leader demanded that Sarma either clarify or retract his statement. “Whenever we say the BJP follows communal politics, they deny it. But now, the Chief Minister himself has exposed their agenda. Who is he referring to when he talks about eliminating people? He must issue a public apology,” Choudhury said.

He warned that if Sarma continues making such remarks, Congress would consider taking legal action. “We will unite conscious citizens against such divisive politics. I also urge the people of Assam not to be misled by these statements. The Chief Minister is trying to provoke a clash for electoral gain,” he alleged.

Choudhury also accused the BJP-led government of discriminating against the Muslim community, pointing to the timing of Sarma’s statement. “It came at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was distributing aid to Muslim families. Is this just a public relations stunt to appear inclusive?” he questioned.

Additionally, he criticized a recent government order requiring teachers to attend schools on Eid to celebrate Bodofa Day. “For 75 years, no schools or colleges functioned on Eid. But suddenly, a directive was issued at night, forcing teachers to report. This was politically motivated. We all respect Bodofa, but such celebrations should be held in a manner that respects all communities,” he argued.

The Congress has vowed to take legal and political steps to counter what it calls the BJP’s divisive agenda. Choudhury urged the people of the state to maintain peace and unity, resisting attempts to stir religious conflict for political gain.