Guwahati: A BJP rally in Assam’s Samaguri on November 9 was marred by a violent incident when unidentified miscreants allegedly opened fire, resulting in injuries and heightening tensions ahead of the upcoming elections.
The rally, which proceeded from Magurmari to Latani, saw the participation of Barhampur MLA Jitu Goswami and BJP leader Suresh Borah. The incident quickly escalated into a political flashpoint, with accusations exchanged between the BJP and Congress.
MLA Jitu Goswami recounted the chaos that unfolded during the rally, stating, “We were conducting a peaceful march when individuals from the house of Ismail Hussain, a former Congress councillor, began throwing stones at our participants, which soon escalated into firing. My car was targeted, but thanks to my PSO, I was unharmed.” He added that one colleague was critically injured and may require transfer to Gauhati Medical College Hospital (GMCH). Goswami has called for the swift apprehension of those responsible.
In response, Congress leader and Dhubri MP Rakibul Hussain countered these claims, accusing the BJP of creating unrest to influence the election climate in Samaguri. Hussain contended that BJP members approached Ismail’s residence, initiating the violence that left Ismail himself injured. According to Hussain, Ismail was then taken into custody and later hospitalized. He further alleged that BJP officials, including Suresh Bora, were involved in the altercation and questioned the neutrality of law enforcement, citing recent transfers of over 50 police officials.
Hussain also referenced a media broadcast aired just before Ismail’s hospitalization, which implicated a person from Dhubri in the shooting. He urged authorities to examine a call he received from a senior journalist, suggesting a potential link to the Chief Minister. Moreover, Hussain noted that multiple cars were vandalized, and several young men from the minority community were detained. Emphasizing the need for transparency, he highlighted that CCTV footage should clarify those involved, advocating for an unbiased and thorough investigation.
As authorities investigate, this incident has sparked heightened political debate, with both parties calling for justice while blaming each other for inciting unrest. Senior police officials at the scene have committed to identifying the perpetrators to prevent further violence as the election approaches.
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