The Assam Police interrogated MP Ajit Kumar Bhuyan for more than five hours on Monday. The questioning was linked to alleged financial irregularities in the Member of Parliament Local Area Development (MPLAD) scheme during the fiscal years 2021–22 and 2022–23.
Probe Centers on Project Irregularities
Sources within the Economic Offences Wing confirmed that the inquiry revolves around suspected anomalies in project allocation and implementation under Bhuyan’s MPLAD fund. Several contractors and middlemen are also reportedly under the scanner.
The interrogation took place at the CID headquarters in Ulubari, Guwahati. Bhuyan was reportedly cooperative but maintained that the allegations were “politically motivated.”
“I have nothing to hide,” Bhuyan told reporters while exiting the CID office. “I’ve served the people of Assam with integrity. This probe is clearly designed to intimidate and defame.”
CM Sarma Backs Investigation
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended the police inquiry, saying the administration is committed to rooting out corruption, regardless of political affiliation.
“We will not compromise on accountability. No elected representative is above scrutiny,” Sarma said at a press briefing in Dibrugarh. He also dismissed claims that the probe was politically driven, stating, “The public deserves transparency in how development funds are used.”
MPLAD Fund Misuse Allegations
Under the MPLAD scheme, MPs can recommend developmental works in their constituencies with an annual allocation of ₹5 crore. Investigators are examining multiple projects allegedly approved without proper tenders or completion reports.
Audit reports from 2022 highlighted discrepancies in fund disbursal and execution, especially in the construction of rural roads, public toilets, and drinking water systems. Many of these projects, listed as complete, were reportedly either incomplete or non-existent on the ground.
Political Backlash and Support
The interrogation has sparked outrage among opposition leaders. Congress MLA Debabrata Saikia termed it a “tactic of harassment” and said, “When the BJP leaders have corruption charges, no action is taken. This is targeted politics.”
Others, however, welcomed the probe. BJP spokesperson Rupam Goswami said, “This is not about politics. It’s about accountability. If Bhuyan is clean, he should welcome the investigation.”
Public Reactions and Media Buzz
News of the questioning created ripples across Assam, especially on social media platforms like X and Facebook. Hashtags such as #AjitBhuyanProbe and #MPLADScamAssam started trending by afternoon.
Meanwhile, political analysts pointed out that such developments could influence public opinion ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. “These cases, whether proven or not, have the potential to damage reputations quickly,” said political observer Dr. Banajit Deka.
What’s Next?
Assam Police is expected to summon more individuals for questioning in the coming weeks. According to CID sources, a forensic audit of the MPLAD records is underway.
MP Ajit Bhuyan, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2020 as an Independent backed by Congress and AIUDF, has stated he will continue cooperating fully with the investigation.
“I will not be cowed down,” he reiterated. “Let the truth come out.”
As Assam’s political landscape grows more volatile, the Ajit Bhuyan MPLAD fund misuse probe has the potential to escalate into a major electoral and legal battleground. The coming weeks will likely reveal whether this is a legitimate crackdown or another chapter in the region’s complex political chess game.