Assam: Wife of notorious drug accused joins electoral fray in Dhubri ahead of panchayat polls

In a shocking political development amid Assam’s ongoing gram panchayat election fever, the wife of an alleged drug trafficker currently under police investigation has filed her nomination as an independent candidate, triggering widespread public debate and concern.

 

Rashida Khatun, wife of Nur Alom Sheikh, who is presently in police custody for multiple charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, has entered the race for the position of ward member from 70 No. Bhashani Char Gaon Panchayat, specifically representing 5 No. Aironjongla, Part-III gaon.

 

Nur Alom Sheikh, 32, son of the late Atab Ali Sheikh and a resident of Aironjongla Part-III under Dhubri Police Station, is a key accused in Dhubri Police Station Case No. 119/25. He is booked under Sections 21(a), 22(b), and 29 of the NDPS Act and is believed to have been an active operator in the regional narcotics supply chain.

 

Adding to the legal complexities, a separate FIR (Dhubri PS Case No. 79/2025) has been filed against Sheikh under Section 305(a) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), with the nature of the allegations yet to be fully disclosed as investigations continue. Authorities confirm the case involves serious charges.

 

Rashida Khatun’s entry into local politics has sparked intense discussions among both the electorate and political observers. Some interpret the move as an effort to restore the family’s social standing or exert influence over local governance mechanisms, while others view it as a courageous personal step taken amid difficult circumstances.

 

Bhashani Char, typically a quiet electoral zone, has now become a hotspot for heated debates as questions arise over candidate vetting, the influence of individuals linked to criminal backgrounds, and the integrity of grassroots democracy.

 

Election authorities have responded cautiously, stating that the candidate’s eligibility will be reviewed in accordance with established electoral guidelines. Still, the incident underscores the persistent challenge of criminal influence in Indian politics, particularly at the local level.

 

"This incident once again highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms to prevent individuals connected to criminal elements from entering the political arena," said a Dhubri-based political analyst.