Gaurav Gogoi rejects allegations, calls it political smear campaign ahead of 2026 assembly polls

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaFebruary 17, 2025

Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Monday dismissed allegations linking his wife, Elizabeth Gogoi, to Pakistan and his meeting with the Pakistani High Commissioner, calling it a politically motivated attack ahead of the 2026 assembly elections in Assam. Gogoi maintained that his interactions with foreign diplomats were routine diplomatic engagements as a member of Parliament.

“My meetings with ambassadors and diplomats, including the Pakistani High Commissioner, are part of my responsibilities as a parliamentarian and are all in the public domain. Even The Hindu newspaper reported on it. There is nothing unusual about such engagements,” Gogoi said addressing a press conference at Rajiv Bhawan in Guwahati alongside Assam Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah.

On the Assam government’s decision to launch an investigation, Gogoi responded, “It is their prerogative. If they want an inquiry, let them proceed. However, they must ensure transparency and make the findings public.” He also confirmed that the Congress legal team had already begun consultations and was prepared to take further action.

Taking a direct swipe at Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Gogoi accused him of shifting narratives out of political fear. “One day, he portrays me as a villain; the next day, I am a victim. This weak and desperate propaganda stems from his fear of losing power in 2026,” he remarked.

Gogoi also pointed out Sarma’s lack of confidence, referring to his recent press conference. “Look at his eyes—he lacks courage. Something is clearly bothering him. He knows his position is fragile and is afraid of what will happen when Congress returns to power in Assam.”

Criticizing the BJP-led state government’s performance, Gogoi questioned its accountability. “For the past ten years, the people of Assam have raised concerns, yet they have received no answers. Himanta Biswa Sarma has been in power for nearly five years, avoiding responsibility. But after 2026, he will have to answer,” he asserted.

Expressing confidence in Congress’ electoral prospects, Gogoi stated, “Over the next 12 months, we will engage with the people, address their concerns, and ensure their voices are heard. Ultimately, it is the people of Assam who will emerge victorious.”

Assam Congress president Bhupen Kumar Borah reaffirmed the party’s support for Gogoi and warned officials involved in the probe that their authority was temporary, stating that they would be held accountable if Congress formed the government.

Meanwhile, Assam Police registered a case against Pakistani national Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, whom the Chief Minister alleged had links to Elizabeth Gogoi. Assam DGP Harmeet Singh confirmed that the CID had filed charges under sections 48, 152, 61, and 197(1) of the BNS, along with Section 13(1) of the UAPA.

Singh stated, “Ali Tauqeer Sheikh’s activities appear to be detrimental to national security. We are investigating whether others, possibly within India or Assam, were involved in the alleged conspiracy. Protecting the nation’s integrity is our priority, and CID will take this case forward accordingly.”

The case was registered following a state cabinet decision on February 16. However, opposition leaders argue that the timing of the allegations—just ahead of the 2026 elections—suggests a deliberate attempt to tarnish Congress’ image rather than a genuine concern for national security.