Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Accuses AJP of Anti-Sanatani Allegations
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Guwahati, April 2 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has made a series of serious allegations against the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) and its leadership, igniting a new political uproar ahead of the elections.
In a media briefing, Sarma accused the AJP of endorsing candidates whose familial ties and ideological beliefs, he argued, are highly offensive to the cultural and religious values of Assam.
He specifically criticized a party candidate, Kunki Chowdhury, alleging that her mother, Sujata Gurung, shared images on social media of consuming beef, which he claimed is a direct attack on “Sanatani values.”
The Chief Minister went further to assert that Gurung, whom he referred to as a woman from Sikkim, had made statements that questioned traditional beliefs and showed a disregard for faith in Lord Krishna.
Additionally, he claimed that she had shown support for contentious figures like Sharjeel Imam and Umar Khalid, accusing them of trying to create divisions within the country.
Sarma alleged that Gurung had indirectly backed Pakistan, raising significant concerns regarding the ideological stance of candidates presented by the AJP.
In a pointed remark aimed at AJP president Lurinjyoti Gogoi, Sarma questioned the party’s dedication to the principles of “jati, mati, bheti” (community, land, and identity), which are crucial to Assam's political landscape.
“Why is Lurinjyoti Gogoi endorsing such candidates?” he queried, also referencing the legacy of the Gandhi family in his critique.
These comments have escalated the political tension in the state, with opposition parties likely to respond vigorously to what they might label as personal and polarizing remarks.
It is noteworthy that Kunki Chowdhury is the youngest candidate contesting for the central Guwahati assembly seat.
The AJP has yet to provide an official response to these accusations.