Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has made a controversial claim alleging that former CM Tarun Gogoi secretly traveled to Pakistan for ten days in December 2013, reportedly receiving some form of training. The accusation stems from Gogoi’s absence from public and digital platforms during that period, which Sarma interpreted as suspicious. Made years after Gogoi's death and over a decade after the alleged visit, the statement has triggered strong reactions across party lines. The opposition Congress dismissed the remarks as unfounded and politically motivated, arguing they serve to deflect attention from pressing governance issues.
The BJP's supporters have largely backed the claim, though broader skepticism persists due to the lack of verifiable evidence. The controversy highlights growing tensions around political discourse, particularly in the run-up to upcoming assembly elections. Questions are being raised about the use of sensitive foreign relations in domestic politics and the responsibility of leaders in making serious allegations. As the debate intensifies, calls are increasing for more factual and measured dialogue in public debates.