Rahul Gandhi slams Sarma, calls him most corrupt CM
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Guwahati
- Apr 02, 2026
- 73
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (April 2, 2026) launched a blistering attack on Himanta Biswa Sarma, branding him the “most corrupt Chief Minister” in the country. He further alleged that Sarma, in collusion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, is operating a “land ATM” in Assam—systematically dispossessing ordinary citizens to facilitate land transfers to major corporate entities.
Addressing an election rally in Bokajan in support of Congress candidate Raton Engti, Gandhi asserted that the ruling dispensation has institutionalised corruption, claiming that both Sarma and his family are deeply entrenched in illicit practices. He warned that a Congress government would initiate stringent legal action, adding that the Chief Minister’s current assertiveness would give way to silence once accountability is enforced.
The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha further contended that Assam is being governed through entrenched syndicates, with Sarma allegedly under the influence of the central leadership due to pending corruption allegations. He claimed that approximately 98,400 bighas of land have been allocated to three major corporate houses, terming the arrangement a nexus designed to benefit industrial elites at the expense of the public.
Invoking the legacy of celebrated musician Zubeen Garg, who passed away in Singapore last year, Gandhi described him as a symbol of Assam’s pluralistic ethos. He pledged that, upon assuming power, the Congress would ensure justice in connection with his death within 100 days, calling it a firm and unequivocal commitment.
Emphasising ideological differences, Gandhi stated that the Congress advocates decentralisation and grassroots empowerment, in contrast to what he described as the BJP’s centralised governance model directed from New Delhi. He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to preserving Assam’s diverse social fabric and announced plans for the full implementation of Article 244(A), ensuring greater autonomy for regions such as Karbi Anglong and other Sixth Schedule areas.
Turning to international affairs, Gandhi criticised the India–U.S. trade agreement, alleging it disproportionately favours the United States. He claimed that reduced tariffs on American goods and increased import obligations would undermine India’s domestic industries, particularly small businesses and the agricultural sector. He also accused U.S. President Donald Trump of exerting undue influence over Modi, making contentious references to alleged financial and legal pressures.
Outlining the party’s electoral promises, Gandhi highlighted the Congress’s “five guarantees,” including direct monthly financial assistance to women, ₹50,000 support for female entrepreneurs, ₹25 lakh cashless health insurance for all families, land rights for 10 lakh indigenous people, and a monthly pension of ₹1,250 for senior citizens. He also announced the creation of a dedicated department for elderly welfare.
Polling for the 126-member Assam Legislative Assembly is scheduled for April 9, with results to be declared on May 4.