Gaurav Gogoi, Congress MP from Assam, criticized Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for promoting divisive Hindu-Muslim politics during his address at the India Today Conclave in Mumbai.

Gogoi asserted that the people of Assam are wiser and more discerning than Sarma suggests, expressing confidence that they will reject such tactics in the upcoming 2026 elections.

Gogoi’s remarks came in response to the Sarma government’s recent actions, including the repeal of a law governing Muslim marriages and the cancellation of the two-hour namaz break on Fridays in the Assam Legislative Assembly.

While Sarma has defended these decisions as efforts to modernize the legal system and enhance productivity, critics argue they reflect a broader agenda to marginalize the Muslim community.

Gogoi emphasized that the current political climate is at odds with Assam’s rich cultural heritage, stating, “The politics of Himanta Biswa Sarma and the current BJP government is an anomaly to the culture of Assam.” He urged the citizens to remain vigilant against such divisive strategies, reiterating, “Trust the people of Assam; they see through this politics.”

Additionally, Sarma’s claims regarding changing demographics in Assam have sparked further controversy.

The Chief Minister suggested that the state could become Muslim-majority by 2041, citing a growth rate of about 30 percent every ten years.

Such assertions have heightened tensions, prompting Congress leaders to push back against what they perceive as fear-mongering.

Gogoi’s comments reflect a growing concern among opposition leaders about the implications of Sarma’s governance.

He warned, “The people of Assam will teach the BJP a lesson for its politics of divide and rule,” higlighting that Assam’s citizens value their cultural and communal harmony.