Former Aamsu President Rejaul Sarkar Exits Congress Amidst Political Storm
Rejaul Karim Sarkar, the former president of the All Assam Minorities Students’ Union, has officially resigned from the Congress party. Sarkar joined Congress on January 11 this year but submitted his resignation letter on Wednesday. He cited deep discomfort with the state leadership as the primary reason for his departure.
Controversial Remarks Spark Immediate Backlash
Sarkar triggered a major controversy shortly after joining Congress. He claimed that the historic town of Sivasagar, once the seat of the Ahom kingdom, would soon resemble Dhubri. Dhubri is a Muslim-majority district in Assam with significant Bangladesh-origin populations. This statement drew intense criticism from various quarters.
Congress members themselves protested against Sarkar's remarks. The backlash left him feeling isolated and unsupported within the party. Senior leaders did not come to his defense when the controversy erupted, according to Sarkar.
Resignation Letter Reveals Harsh Accusations
In his resignation letter addressed to Congress state president Gaurav Gogoi, Sarkar made serious allegations. He accused senior Congress leader Debabrata Saikia and MP Pradyut Bordoloi of behaving like agents of the BJP. Sarkar wrote that their actions and remarks caused him deep distress.
Sarkar explained his initial decision to join Congress. He was attracted by the party's stated commitment to secularism, inclusive politics, and constitutional values. However, he felt these principles were not upheld by certain leaders in practice.
Political Principles and Personal Dignity at Stake
The former student leader expressed that remaining in Congress would force him to compromise his conscience. He believed staying would mean sacrificing his political principles and personal dignity. Sarkar emphasized he received no support from senior party figures during the crisis.
He described feeling increasingly alienated within the party structure. The lack of backing during the controversy confirmed his decision to resign was necessary.
Widespread Criticism from Political Figures
Several prominent political figures criticized Sarkar's original remarks about Sivasagar. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma called the comments insensitive. He highlighted the context of Assam's ongoing demographic and identity-related tensions.
Debabrata Saikia, the leader of the opposition in the state legislative assembly, also condemned the statement. Akhil Gogoi, the Raijor Dal chief and Sivasagar MLA, joined the chorus of criticism. On Wednesday, CM Sarma further suggested that Gaurav Gogoi should have dismissed Sarkar for insulting the Assamese people.
The resignation marks a swift political reversal for Sarkar, whose brief Congress tenure ended amid controversy and accusations. The episode highlights ongoing tensions within Assam's political landscape regarding identity and representation.
