AJP Candidate's Mother Files NCW Complaint Against Assam CM Over Defamatory Remarks
Sujata Gurung Chowdhury, the mother of Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) candidate Kunki Chowdhury, has formally lodged a complaint with the National Commission for Women (NCW) against Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. She accuses him of making "false, defamatory, and malicious" statements during the election campaign, which she claims have triggered significant online harassment against her and her family.
Allegations by CM Sarma and Sujata's Response
During the campaign, CM Sarma alleged that Sujata shared social media posts related to beef consumption and made remarks offensive to certain sections of society, particularly hurting the sentiments of 'Sanatani' people. On April 5, he announced plans to take action against her under the Cattle Prevention Act, 2021. In her complaint, Sujata stated, "CM Sarma alleged that my social media activity has hurt the sentiments of Sanatani people and I harbour sympathies for Pakistan. He also alleged that I support anti-national individuals and also publicly consume beef. These statements are completely false, baseless, and malicious, and appear to have been made with the intent to defame me and politically target my daughter."
Clarification on Social Media Image
Sujata clarified that an image cited by the CM to support the beef consumption allegation was actually taken at the International Church of Cannabis in the United States. She explained that the object shown was an artistic prop, not food, and emphasized, "So, the allegation that I was eating beef is factually incorrect and deliberately misleading." This clarification aims to counter what she describes as a misleading narrative propagated by the CM's statements.
Privacy Violations and Call for Intervention
In addition to the defamation claims, Sujata highlighted that her photographs, including those of her minor son, were circulated on social media without her consent. She expressed concern over the invasion of privacy and the potential harm to her family. Consequently, she has sought urgent intervention from the NCW to address these issues and protect her rights. The complaint underscores the broader implications of political rhetoric on personal safety and online behavior during election seasons.
