Sarma vs Gogoi: How a decade-old Congress rift turned into Assam's fiercest political showdown
Times of India
by KANCHAN YADAVFebruary 24, 2026
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The political rivalry between Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi has escalated into a high-stakes showdown ahead of the 2026 state assembly elections. Sarma has accused Gogoi of undertaking a "confidential visit" to Pakistan in 2013, allegedly for training, and claimed that his subsequent questions in Parliament about sensitive topics like defense and espionage were linked to this trip. He even hinted at treason, calling for central agencies to investigate Gogoi's alleged activities. Gogoi has strongly denied these claims, labeling them "mindless and bogus" and dismissing Sarma's accusations as a political ploy.
The feud between the two leaders is deeply rooted in a bitter internal Congress party conflict that began over a decade ago. What started as a leadership tussle within the party has now spilled into the public domain, with personal attacks and old grievances taking center stage. Sarma's allegations have intensified the rivalry, with him suggesting that Gogoi's movements during his 10-day stay in Pakistan were documented, making him vulnerable to blackmail. He also criticized Gaurav Gogoi for questioning his family's acquisition of large tracts of land, hinting at potential redistributive policies if the Congress comes to power.
The clash has broader implications for Assam's political landscape and India's national security concerns. Sarma's accusations have sparked debates about the extent of Pakistan's influence in Indian politics and raised questions about political integrity. Gogoi, on the other hand, has countered by highlighting Sarma's own family's landholdings
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026