Assam CM accuses Rahul Gandhi of using 'naxalite tactics' amid clash between Congress supporters and police

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma instructed Assam DGP GP Singh to register a criminal case against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi following a clash between Congress supporters and police in Guwahati on January 23.

The clash happened after Assam Police, under Sarma's direction, stopped a yatra from entering the city, leading to protests from Congress workers.

CM Sarma accused Gandhi of allegedly provoking the crowd and violating guidelines, resulting in a massive traffic jam in Guwahati. Scenes from the incident show Congress supporters tussling with police personnel while Gandhi watched from afar.

Slamming Rahul Gandhi over the clash, Assam CM posted on X, "These are not part of Assamese culture. We are a peaceful state. Such “naxalite tactics” are completely alien to our culture. I have instructed @DGPAssamPolice to register a case against your leader  @RahulGandhi for provoking the crowd & use the footage you have posted on your handles as the evidence. Your unruly behaviour and violation of agreed guidelines have resulted in a massive traffic jam in Guwahati now".

The yatra was rerouted due to potential traffic disruptions and law and order concerns, causing a significant police presence at Khanapara crossing, the city's entry point. Assam Pradesh Congress Committee leaders stated that they were forced to change their route after being barred from entering Guwahati.

Gandhi is set to hold a press conference at Hajo at 1:20 pm to discuss the incident and the yatra's progress. The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, travelling through the Northeast, has encountered several obstacles in BJP-ruled Assam, including Gandhi being denied entry to the shrine at Sankardeva's birthplace in Nagaon district.

Also read: Guwahati: Security beefed up as Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra to re-enter Assam today