Dibrugarh: Dibrugarh police on Friday conducted a search operation at the residence of Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) president Lurinjyoti Gogoi at Godapani in Dibrugarh.
Police personnel visited the premises and carried out a search, prompting sharp reactions from the party.
Addressing a press conference, AJP leader Chittaranjan Basumatary alleged that 30 to 40 police personnel arrived at the residence without a search warrant or prior notice. "We believe the search was carried out under political pressure. We strongly condemn this incident," he said.
He further alleged that one of the party's members was assaulted on polling day in Khowang, but no arrests have been made despite an FIR being lodged. "BJP members have openly threatened our workers with violence," Basumatary claimed.
He also alleged that a vehicle belonging to an AJP member was vandalised and accused BJP workers of targeting party supporters. "The BJP fears defeat in Khowang and is resorting to intimidation," he said.
Questioning the police action, Basumatary said, "How can a search be conducted without a warrant or chargesheet? We urge the Election Commission of India to look into the matter and take necessary steps."
Responding to the allegations, Assam Cabinet Minister Bimal Borah, speaking at a press conference in Khowang, accused AJP supporters of engaging in violence.
"The AJP members did not spare even women. They vandalised Chakradhar Gogoi's office and assaulted party workers. A BJP worker who had come from Jharkhand for the election was also attacked," Borah said.
He further alleged that AJP supporters targeted Hindi-speaking individuals. "In the name of regionalism, they are acting against the ethos of Assam's indigenous people," he said, adding that the party was acting in coordination with the Congress.
Borah also claimed that the violence stemmed from the AJP's anticipation of defeat in Khowang. "We do not support violence. It is not part of our party's culture," he said.