Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma responded fiercely to Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi’s recent comments on the Karbi community. The Sarma on Gogoi remark, “Pakistani puppets can’t digest tribal progress,” triggered intense debate across Assam’s political circles.
CM Sarma made the statement during a public rally in Diphu, where he accused Congress leaders of attempting to divide tribal communities through misinformation and outdated narratives.
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What Triggered the Exchange?
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi had recently questioned the state government’s development claims in Karbi Anglong. He alleged that tribal areas in Assam were being neglected and that BJP had failed to deliver on its promises to the Karbi people.
CM Sarma responded by accusing Gogoi of speaking in a tone that “mirrors foreign propaganda.” He added, “Those controlled by Pakistani puppeteers will never accept that tribals in Assam are progressing under the BJP.”
The Sarma on Gogoi remark sparked applause from BJP supporters and strong rebuttals from the Congress camp.
CM Sarma Lists Development Work in Karbi Areas
To counter Gogoi’s claims, the Chief Minister outlined several initiatives taken in the Karbi region, including:
- Road and bridge construction under PMGSY and state funds
- Upgradation of district hospitals and primary health centers
- Establishment of Karbi cultural centers and tribal museums
- Housing schemes and rural electrification drives
He further stated that the BJP had signed a peace accord with Karbi rebel groups, which Congress had failed to do in decades of rule.
Political Reactions Pour In
Gogoi, in a social media post, dismissed Sarma’s comments as “cheap rhetoric.” He claimed that instead of addressing public concerns, the CM had resorted to name-calling and inflammatory language.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders stood behind Sarma. Assam cabinet minister Pijush Hazarika said the Sarma on Gogoi comment was justified given the “Congress agenda of destabilization.”
Karbi civil society groups also reacted to the war of words. While some praised Sarma’s development pitch, others urged both leaders to maintain the dignity of tribal concerns and avoid politicizing their identity.
Tribal Progress Becomes Political Flashpoint
The controversy reflects a larger trend in Assam where tribal development has become a key electoral issue. With the upcoming elections nearing, parties are vying to control the narrative in tribal belts.
This isn’t the first clash between the two leaders. Their rivalry has intensified over the past year, with multiple verbal duels on topics ranging from border security to job creation.
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