Guwahati, January 12, 2026 — A fresh political controversy has erupted in Assam after newly inducted Congress leader Rejaul Karim Sarkar (also referred to as Rezaul Karim Sarkar), former president of the All Assam Minorities Students’ Union (AAMSU), made a contentious statement on the day he joined the party, vowing to transform Upper Assam districts like Sivasagar and Tinsukia into “Dhubri-like” areas.
Speaking at a public event in the presence of Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president and MP Gaurav Gogoi on Sunday, Sarkar reportedly said the party would “make Sivasagar like Dhubri, turn Dhubri into Sivasagar, make Barak like Sivasagar, and turn Tinsukia into Dhubri.” The remarks, interpreted by critics as a reference to demographic changes, triggered immediate backlash from BJP leaders, indigenous groups, and social organizations, who accused it of promoting division and threatening Assam’s cultural identity.
Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma strongly condemned the statement, labeling it “insulting, provocative, and irresponsible.” He questioned Sarkar’s authority to speak on converting Sivasagar — a historic seat of the Ahom kingdom and symbol of Assam’s glorious heritage — into Dhubri, a district often associated with significant demographic shifts due to migration.
“Who is Rejaul Karim to talk about turning Sivasagar into Dhubri in the name of Greater Assam?” Sarma asked, alleging the remark reflected an arrogant attempt to undermine the region’s historical and cultural dignity. He further accused the Congress of indulging in “politics of appeasement” and claimed such statements indicated an intent to alter demographics by bringing people from Bangladesh, turning areas into “Miya lands.” Sarma added that if such words had been spoken in his presence, he “would have shoved them out.”
The controversy intensified with reactions from other figures, including Raijor Dal leader and Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi, who warned against deliberate provocation of social discord. Protests broke out in parts of Upper Assam, including Sivasagar and Lakhimpur, with indigenous organizations issuing ultimatums for Sarkar’s expulsion from Congress.
Amid mounting pressure, Sarkar issued a public apology and clarification on Monday, stating his words had been “misunderstood and taken out of context.” He emphasized that his intent was to promote balanced development, unity, and a “Greater Assam” where all regions thrive in harmony, not to divide or demean any area. Opposition Leader Debabrata Saikia described the statement as “poorly articulated” and clarified it did not reflect the Congress party’s official position.
The incident has added fresh fuel to Assam’s already heated political atmosphere ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, with analysts viewing it as a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over identity, migration, and regional harmony in the state.
Political observers note that Dhubri and Upper Assam districts like Sivasagar represent contrasting demographic and cultural profiles, making any comparison highly sensitive in Assam’s socio-political context.
