Assam: The Assam unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to take strict disciplinary action against Bokakhat BJP leader Akash Phukan after a controversial audio recording surfaced, in which he allegedly used abusive language against Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu.
Addressing the matter, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that if the audio’s authenticity is confirmed, the party will act decisively, underscoring that such behavior is unacceptable for any BJP member.
The controversy escalated after Advocate Ganesh Pegu lodged an FIR against Phukan at Dispur Police Station in Guwahati, accusing him of spreading misinformation about the education minister. The FIR alleged that Phukan falsely accused Minister Ranoj Pegu of working solely for the Mising community while criticizing his performance in the education sector.
In the leaked audio, Phukan reportedly hurled abuses at the minister and distanced himself from him, stating, “Ranoj Pegu is not my leader; my leader is Himanta Biswa Sarma.” He also claimed that BJP MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa had allegedly taken ₹20 lakh from him, asserting that only two BJP leaders held influence over the Dergaon constituency, including Tasa.
The controversy is believed to have stemmed from a tender dispute related to the construction of a bridge. Phukan allegedly helped contractor Gobin Pegu secure the tender and demanded a commission. When his demands went unmet, he is said to have unleashed derogatory remarks against Minister Pegu in frustration.
Phukan’s comments have sparked widespread outrage, particularly among the Mising community, which has since banned him from entering their areas in Assam. While Phukan has issued a public apology for his remarks, the backlash against him continues to grow, with the BJP expected to take formal action soon. The incident has highlighted the internal discord within the party and has drawn significant public and political attention.
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