Assam Congress President Gaurav Gogoi Rebuts Chief Minister's Pakistan Allegations
In a strongly worded press conference held in Guwahati on Monday, Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi vehemently denied allegations made by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma linking him to Pakistan. Gogoi asserted that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) report, which the CM referenced, had remained with Sarma's office for six months due to a complete lack of evidence.
Clarification on Family's Pakistan Visit
Addressing the core of the controversy, Gogoi provided a detailed clarification regarding the trip in question. He stated that his wife, Elizabeth Colburn, visited Pakistan in 2013 for a legitimate, work-related purpose. Gogoi confirmed that he accompanied her during this ten-day visit. Emphatically, he noted that he has never been questioned by any investigative agency, intelligence body, or law enforcement authority in connection with this trip or any alleged links to Pakistan.
Condemnation of Political Tactics Involving Family
Gogoi launched a sharp critique of Chief Minister Sarma for what he described as an irresponsible and shameful act: dragging Gogoi's children into the political discourse. He condemned this tactic as beneath the dignity of Assam's political landscape and harmful to the state's social fabric. Gogoi expressed deep disappointment that a matter of political disagreement had been extended to target his family members.
Demands and Potential Legal Action
In his statements, Gogoi made two key demands. First, he called for the immediate and unconditional public release of the SIT report that Chief Minister Sarma has cited. Second, citing the remarks made about his family, Gogoi announced that he is actively considering pursuing legal action. He framed this as a necessary step to protect his family's privacy and reputation from what he views as baseless and malicious political attacks.
The press conference underscored the escalating political tensions in Assam, with Gogoi positioning the allegations as a smear campaign devoid of factual foundation. He challenged the Chief Minister to substantiate the claims with evidence from the SIT report, maintaining his and his family's innocence throughout the address.
