Sarbananda Sonowal Fake Letter Viral: Forged Document Sparks FIR Ahead of Assam Assembly Elections 2026
New Delhi/Guwahati, January 19, 2026 – In a major development rocking Assam’s political landscape just months before the crucial Assam Assembly Elections 2026, a fake letter purportedly from Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has gone viral on social media, prompting the immediate filing of an FIR and strong condemnation from the minister himself.
The forged document, bearing the official letterhead of the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and a fake signature, is dated January 15, 2026. It claims to be addressed to the BJP National President and highlights “serious political and administrative challenges” in Assam. The letter allegedly calls for “course correction” within the party, expressing concerns over the BJP’s prospects in the upcoming Assam Assembly Elections 2026 (expected in March–April) and even suggesting the need for a different chief ministerial face to avoid potential losses.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the former Chief Minister of Assam (2016–2021) and a prominent BJP leader from the state, swiftly reacted to the circulation of this fabricated content. In an official statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), he declared:
“It has come to my notice that a forged letter bearing the official letterhead and fake signature of Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal is being circulated by miscreants with malafide intent. This constitutes a serious criminal offence involving forgery, impersonation, and misuse of official government identity, apparently aimed at spreading misinformation and discrediting a constitutional authority.”
Sonowal emphasized that the letter and its contents are “completely fake and fabricated.” He urged the public and media not to rely on or share such fraudulent material and to verify all information only through official government sources. An FIR was promptly lodged at the Parliament Street Police Station in New Delhi based on a complaint from his office, with law enforcement agencies requested to investigate the matter on a priority basis and take strict legal action against the perpetrators.
The incident is seen as a deliberate attempt to sow discord within the BJP ranks and create political instability in Assam ahead of the 2026 Assembly Elections, where the BJP, under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, aims to secure another term riding on the “Double Engine Sarkar” model with the central government.
Allegations Point to Political Vendetta
State Minister Piyush Hazarika has leveled serious allegations, claiming that the fake letter was crafted and disseminated by a group linked to the Congress party’s so-called ‘Miya IT Cell’. Circulated widely through WhatsApp groups, the document is accused of being part of a larger conspiracy to defame Sarbananda Sonowal and undermine the BJP’s unity.
Hazarika described the act as “despicable” and stated that substantial evidence has been gathered. He highlighted that the offence attracts provisions under Section 274 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Emblems Act, 1950, classifying it as a non-bailable crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Due to the misuse of national emblems, central agencies could also intervene. Assam Police are reportedly advancing the probe swiftly to apprehend those responsible.
“The Congress party is steadily heading towards complete destruction,” Hazarika remarked. “We are proud of our strong network of workers who exposed this vile conspiracy of spreading fake news. All involved will soon face legal proceedings.”
Context of Assam Assembly Elections 2026
The timing of this forgery scandal is significant, as Assam gears up for the 2026 Assembly Elections. The current Assembly term ends on May 20, 2026, with polls likely in March–April. The BJP has been emphasizing its achievements in peace, development, and governance since 2016, contrasting them with the alleged failures of past Congress regimes. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has repeatedly called on party cadres to avoid complacency and infighting, stressing unity for a strong showing.
This fake letter episode appears designed to exploit internal discussions on strategy and leadership, potentially creating perceptions of discontent within the BJP. Both Sonowal and Hazarika have labeled it as politically motivated vendetta, possibly aimed at weakening the ruling party’s position in a high-stakes electoral battle.
Public Advisory and Broader Implications
Authorities have reiterated appeals for vigilance against misinformation. In an era of rapid social media spread, such incidents highlight the risks of digital forgery in influencing public opinion and electoral processes.
As the investigation unfolds, the Sarbananda Sonowal fake letter case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by fake news in Indian politics. Stay tuned for updates on the probe and any developments related to the Assam Assembly Elections 2026.
For authentic information on Sarbananda Sonowal and official updates, refer only to verified government or BJP sources. This developing story underscores the need for responsible information consumption in politically sensitive times.
