Guwahati, January 27 – Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unleashed a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday, accusing him of repeated insensitivity towards the state’s cultural symbols. The controversy erupted over viral social media clips showing Gandhi allegedly mishandling the traditional Assamese ‘gamocha’ or ‘patka’, a revered scarf symbolizing honor and regional pride in Assam and the Northeast.
Speaking to reporters in Dibrugarh’s Digboi district during a state government event, Sarma expressed no surprise at the incident. ‘This is not new. Rahul Gandhi has disrespected Assam and Northeast people multiple times before,’ he stated firmly. He recounted past instances where Gandhi’s actions had hurt local sentiments, emphasizing that such behavior undermines the cultural fabric of the region.
The Chief Minister made it clear that his government would not pursue legal action. ‘Respect for traditions can’t be enforced by law; it’s a matter of one’s conscience and inner values,’ Sarma remarked. Courts or police cannot dictate cultural reverence, he added, urging Gandhi to introspect before seeking political support from the area.
Sarma’s remarks come amid heightened political tensions in Assam, with elections on the horizon. The BJP has rallied behind the CM, labeling Gandhi’s actions as a pattern of disrespect towards regional identity. Congress, however, dismissed the accusations as politically motivated distractions from pressing issues like development and unemployment.
This clash highlights a broader narrative in Northeast politics: the delicate balance between national leaders and local customs. As Sarma put it, ‘If Rahul can’t respect our culture, he shouldn’t visit just for votes. Learn to honor our people first.’ The episode has reignited debates on cultural sensitivity, forcing both parties to navigate identity politics carefully in the lead-up to polls.
Assam’s political landscape remains charged, with cultural pride emerging as a key battleground. Observers note that such incidents could sway voter sentiments in a region where traditions hold deep sway.