Himanta Biswa Sarma Government Denies Permission for Rahul Gandhi’s Yatra Through Guwahati Arterial Roads

In a contentious move, the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led government in Assam has refused permission for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra to traverse through key roads in Guwahati. The denial comes amidst escalating tensions between the Assam Chief Minister and Congress leaders, who accuse him of obstructing the yatra’s progress. Citing the working day in Guwahati, the state administration contends that allowing the rally through city roads could cause traffic congestion, directing it instead to use National Highway 27 as it proceeds towards lower Assam.

The political drama unfolded near the shrine of 15th-century social reformer Srimanta Sankardeva in Assam, where Rahul Gandhi planned to visit. Chief Minister Sarma urged him to refrain from visiting before the Ram Mandir ‘pran pratistha’ ceremony in Ayodhya, sparking a dispute. The shrine’s managing committee enforced a visitation restriction until 3 pm, leading to Gandhi and his associates being stopped en route. Despite the roadblock, Gandhi expressed his reverence for Sankardeva’s philosophy and beliefs, emphasizing unity over hatred. Accusations from the Congress have intensified, alleging that the Himanta Biswa Sarma government is deliberately creating obstacles for the yatra.

The party points to incidents of workers raising pro-Modi and pro-Ram slogans during the yatra, asserting that the Chief Minister’s alleged goons have been attacking convoys, properties, and leaders. The yatra also faced setbacks in Meghalaya, where a planned interaction with students at a university was canceled due to denied permission. Rahul Gandhi will now meet students near the Assam-Meghalaya border, further highlighting the challenges faced by the Congress leader’s journey in the northeastern states.

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