Did Assam LoP Debabrata Saikia Act as a 'BJP Agent'?
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Synopsis
In a forceful response, Assam’s Leader of Opposition, Debabrata Saikia, refutes claims made by former AAMSU president Rejaul Karim Sarkar, denying accusations of acting as a 'BJP agent'. This controversy highlights growing discontent within the Assam Congress, especially following Sarkar's resignation over ideological differences.
Key Takeaways
- Debabrata Saikia firmly rejects allegations of acting for the BJP.
- Sarkar's resignation reflects ideological divisions within Congress.
- Saikia stresses the importance of cultural identities in Assam.
- The controversy may impact the Congress party's future strategies.
Guwahati, Jan 15 (NationPress): The Leader of Opposition in Assam, Debabrata Saikia, strongly countered allegations made against him by the former president of the All Assam Minorities Students’ Union (AAMSU), Rejaul Karim Sarkar. Saikia firmly dismissed the accusations that he was a 'BJP agent', a representative of the Chief Minister, or anti-minority.
He pointed out that he had openly disagreed with Sarkar’s controversial statements right after the latter joined the Indian National Congress, emphasizing that Assam's social harmony relies on honoring the unique cultural identities of regions like Dhubri and Sivasagar.
“Each region has its own historical and cultural significance. Any effort to disrupt this equilibrium is intolerable,” stated Saikia.
In response to Sarkar’s claims that he was operating on behalf of the BJP or the state government, Saikia expressed that the allegations were so ridiculous that he was uncertain “whether to laugh or cry.”
He highlighted that if there were any truth to such claims, the Congress leadership would have taken disciplinary actions against him throughout his decade-long association with the party.
This response was triggered by Sarkar’s resignation from Congress on January 14, citing “deep ideological and moral differences” with the party’s senior leaders in Assam.
In his resignation letter to Gaurav Gogoi, the president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee, Sarkar mentioned that he had joined the party motivated by its secular values and constitutional principles but felt disenchanted by the recent public comments of senior leaders, including Saikia and Nagaon MP Pradyut Bordoloi.
Sarkar accused them of behaving like 'BJP agents' and claimed it had inflicted moral distress and tarnished his public image.
The controversy also stems from Sarkar’s earlier advocacy for a 'Greater Assam', which faced harsh criticism from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who charged him with making divisive remarks that threatened Assam’s unity.
This incident has revealed deepening internal divisions within the Assam Congress, presenting new challenges for the party as it gears up for the upcoming electoral cycle.
Point of View
It's crucial to approach this situation with a balanced perspective. The allegations against Saikia not only illustrate the tensions within the Congress party but also raise questions about the political landscape in Assam, reflecting broader issues of identity and representation in Indian politics. Nation always stands for integrity in reporting and ensuring that diverse voices are heard.
NationPress
15/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Debabrata Saikia's rebuttal?
Saikia's response was prompted by allegations made by Rejaul Karim Sarkar, who claimed Saikia was acting as a 'BJP agent'.
What are the implications of Sarkar's resignation?
Sarkar's resignation highlights deep ideological rifts within the Assam Congress, posing challenges for the party's unity and strategy moving forward.
How did Saikia respond to the allegations?
Saikia dismissed the allegations as absurd and emphasized the need to respect Assam's diverse cultural identities.
