Recent remarks by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma about Akhil Gogoi’s wife, Gitashree Tamuli, have sparked widespread debate. While Gogoi has been vocal in defending his spouse, celebrated novelist and former academician Rita Chowdhury has weighed in on the controversy, addressing Gogoi directly in a detailed social media post.
Chowdhury reflected on Gogoi’s evolution from a socially conscious student leader to a politician, questioning his selective outrage. She recounted a past incident where she faced public criticism after receiving the Brahmaputra Literary Award. Allegations that she secured the honor through her husband’s political influence deeply hurt her, and she expressed disappointment over Gogoi’s failure to support her during that time.
“Rita Baidew should have felt ashamed,” Gogoi had remarked then, a comment Chowdhury found particularly hurtful, given her integrity. Contrasting this with Gogoi’s strong defense of his wife, who is now facing public scrutiny, Chowdhury questioned whether he had ever opposed similar attacks on other politicians’ spouses.
Drawing a historical analogy, Chowdhury reminded Gogoi that even Ravana’s wife, Mandodari, is revered among the five Satis, implying that ethical judgments in politics should not be selective. She concluded her post by wishing Gogoi success in his political career while subtly urging him to reflect on his approach to political discourse and personal integrity.
Chowdhury’s post has added a new dimension to the ongoing controversy, highlighting the complexities of public life and the need for consistency in addressing personal and political challenges.
