BJP workers stop Congress MLA's vehicle in Assam's Morigaon, tension flares
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Tension gripped Assam's Morigaon district on Tuesday, 22 September after a group of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers allegedly intercepted the vehicle of Congress MLA Asif Nazar at Garoimari, raising slogans and triggering a scuffle between supporters of the two parties. The incident is the second political flashpoint in the state in as many days, coming ahead of the Nagaon Lok Sabha bypoll scheduled for 6 October.
What Happened at Garoimari
According to reports, BJP workers blocked Nazar's vehicle and shouted 'Go Back Asif Nazar' slogans, prompting a physical confrontation between party workers from both sides at the spot. The situation reportedly escalated briefly before authorities moved in.
Morigaon Senior Superintendent of Police Nishant Saurabh personally reached the location, helped escort the Congress MLA safely out of the area, and oversaw the restoration of order. Additional police personnel were deployed in the area to prevent further clashes and maintain law and order.
The Samaguri Stone-Pelting Incident a Day Earlier
Tuesday's confrontation follows a separate incident on Monday, 21 September, when a Congress campaign convoy was allegedly targeted with stones while travelling towards an election meeting in Samaguri. The convoy reportedly carried Assam Pradesh Congress Committee President Gaurav Gogoi, former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, and other senior party leaders.
Congress leaders alleged that BJP supporters were behind the stone-pelting and subsequently filed a police complaint. The BJP has rejected the allegations.
What the Chief Minister Said
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma offered a contrasting account of the Samaguri episode, asserting that it stemmed from a confrontation between rival factions within the Congress itself. Sarma advised the Congress state leadership to address what he described as internal differences rather than blaming political opponents. He also cautioned that political disputes must not spill onto the streets or disturb public order.
Bypoll Context and Political Stakes
The incidents underscore the charged atmosphere surrounding the Nagaon Lok Sabha bypoll on 6 October. Congress has fielded Sibamoni Bora for the seat, with senior party leaders — including Gogoi and Baghel — conducting an intensive campaign across the constituency. Authorities have heightened vigilance in politically sensitive areas to prevent further flare-ups between rival camps.
Details regarding any injuries, arrests, or formal cases registered in connection with Tuesday's Morigaon confrontation are still awaited, with investigations ongoing.