Guwahati, April 2 – Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) and its leadership of promoting individuals whose family backgrounds and ideological positions were "deeply offensive to the cultural and religious sentiments of Assam" on Thursday, sparking a fresh political controversy ahead of the elections.
Addressing the media, Sarma specifically targeted a party candidate, Kunki Chowdhury, alleging that her mother, Sujata Gurung, had posted photographs on social media consuming beef, which he said was an affront to "Sanatani values."
He further alleged that Gurung, whom he described as a woman from Sikkim, had made statements challenging traditional beliefs and expressing a lack of faith in Lord Krishna.
He also claimed that she had extended support to controversial figures like Sharjeel Imam and Umar Khalid, accusing them of attempting to divide the country.
Sarma went on to allege that Gurung had indirectly expressed support for Pakistan, adding that such positions raised serious concerns about the ideological leanings of those being fielded by AJP.
Taking a direct swipe at AJP president Lurinjyoti Gogoi, Sarma questioned the party’s commitment to "jati, mati, bheti" (community, land, and identity), a key political plank in Assam.
"Why is Lurinjyoti Gogoi giving tickets to such candidates?" he asked, while also invoking the legacy of the Gandhi family in his criticism.
The remarks have intensified the political slugfest in the state, with opposition parties expected to respond strongly to what they may term as personal and polarizing attacks.
Notably, Kunki Chowdhury is the youngest candidate contesting in the central Guwahati assembly seat.
The AJP has not yet issued an official response to the allegations.