Guwahati: In a fiery address delivered at Rajiv Bhawan, Guwahati, Congress national spokesperson Charan Singh Sapra leveled severe accusations against the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led Assam government, alleging a descent into “Thoktantra,” or rule by force, rather than the democratic principles of “Loktantra.” Sapra’s condemnations highlighted a perceived erosion of democratic norms, particularly in the lead-up to the crucial Panchayat elections.
Sapra painted a picture of state machinery, particularly the police, being weaponized to stifle opposition voices and instill fear among dissenters. He questioned the very essence of free and fair elections, asking, “If votes are guarded by batons, where is democracy?” He argued that the BJP had transformed Assam into a hostile political arena, dominated by fear and intimidation rather than open democratic participation.
The Congress spokesperson cited specific instances of alleged political targeting, including the mounting legal cases against Congress spokesperson Ritum Singh and the recent withdrawal of security for MP Rakibul Hussain. Sapra denounced these actions as more than mere harassment, characterizing them as deliberate attempts to silence the opposition and suppress critical voices.
He also addressed what he termed as “character assassination” campaigns, specifically mentioning the smear tactics directed at MP Gaurav Gogoi and his wife. Sapra viewed these actions as a reflection of the ruling party’s desperation and a sign of their weakening grip on power.
Beyond political figures, Sapra expressed deep concerns regarding the state of press freedom in Assam. He alleged that journalists who dared to criticize the BJP-led government faced threats and punitive measures, effectively silencing those who sought to expose the truth.
Sapra further characterized the BJP as a party defined by “3 Js — Jhoot (lies), Jumla (empty rhetoric), and Jugglery,” asserting that governance had been reduced to a series of manipulative tactics and coercive actions.
Shifting to national concerns, Sapra conveyed his condolences regarding the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in 26 fatalities. He called for national unity in the face of terrorism and demanded a thorough investigation into the apparent intelligence failure.
Concluding his address, Sapra implored the citizens of Assam to uphold the principles of democracy, emphasizing, “In Assam, let the votes speak, not the police baton. It is the will of the people—not fear—that must prevail,” urging them to resist intimidation and exercise their democratic rights.