Why Did Assam CM Slam Gaurav Gogoi Over 'Missile Strike' Remarks?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma criticized Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi for his remarks on India's missile strategy.
- Sarma alleged that Gogoi’s comments favor Pakistan over national interests.
- Gogoi's remarks were compared to an understanding of military capabilities.
- Historical regions Jorhat and Sivasagar were mentioned in the context of national pride.
- The BJP condemned Gogoi's speech as demoralizing to the armed forces.
Guwahati, July 31 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has sharply criticized Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi -- without naming him directly -- for his recent comments in Parliament regarding India's missile strike capabilities, accusing him of having a pro-Pakistan stance.
In a media interaction, Sarma mocked Gogoi's observations about India's long-range missile strategy, sarcastically dubbing him a “great scientist.”
The Chief Minister asserted that Gogoi’s remarks were “more celebrated in Pakistan than in India.”
“This is a disgrace for the citizens of Assam,” Sarma added.
“One of our MPs questioned why India launched a missile from a distance instead of up close, suggesting we should have struck like it’s merely a firecracker.”
Continuing his criticism, Sarma remarked: “You’re such a renowned scientist that you’re concerned about missile range. While our armed forces can hit targets thousands of kilometers away, he chooses to criticize instead of applauding them. His speech received the loudest applause in Pakistan.”
Escalating his charges, Sarma claimed Gogoi has a history of anti-India sentiments.
“He has never truly loved India. Three of his family members hold foreign citizenship, and it wouldn’t surprise me if he changes his own citizenship soon. That’s why his speeches in Parliament often sound as if they’re against India.”
Referring to Gogoi’s constituency, the Chief Minister stated: “Jorhat and Sivasagar are areas integral to India’s freedom struggle. It’s unfortunate that an MP from such a historically significant region is now celebrated across the border. Since 2014, every speech he has made seems to benefit Pakistan.”
Sarma’s remarks were a response to Gogoi’s criticism of India’s defense posture during a recent parliamentary debate—a speech that the BJP has labeled as demoralizing for the armed forces and misaligned with national interests.