Guwahati: Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Gaurav Gogoi strongly criticised Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday, claiming that while the CM treats politics as a tool for personal gain, the Opposition sees it as a way to serve the people of Assam.
During a campaign event in the 100 No. Jorhat Assembly constituency, Gogoi asserted that voters have recognised the difference between the ruling party and the Opposition. He called for the creation of a "new Assam" based on freedom of expression, social harmony, and a government that prioritises the welfare of the underprivileged.
Gogoi also addressed allegations made by the Chief Minister regarding his family's property and claims of a foreign-linked account. He challenged Sarma to take a public oath on the Bhagavad Gita to confirm the veracity of his statements, offering to do the same at a designated location in Jorhat at a time specified by the CM.
He told reporters that the Chief Minister could set the time for the oath, and Gogoi would comply simultaneously at a local venue, reiterating his willingness to face the challenge openly.
Earlier, in a live social media address, Sarma agreed to Gogoi's earlier challenge to swear on the Bhagavad Gita concerning financial disclosures, including foreign accounts, properties, or passports linked to his family. Sarma proposed that both leaders meet at Batadrava Than at 9 am on Wednesday to take the oath publicly.
Gogoi further criticised the Chief Minister, alleging he has a strained relationship with the press and pointing out that attacks on Congress candidates, including Sunil Chhetri, Bidisha Neog, and Mira Borthakur, were ignored by the Assam Police.
He claimed the authorities act only when the party's spokesperson holds a press conference, calling it an example of authoritarian behaviour.
The Congress leader toured the constituency, interacting with voters and local communities, while BJP candidate and former Assembly Speaker Hitendra Nath Goswami campaigned alongside Pabitra Margherita and state BJP secretary Siddhanku Ankur Baruah.

