Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has indicated that the ongoing investigation into the alleged Pakistani links of Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi and his wife, Elizabeth Gogoi, may seek assistance from Interpol if required. The special investigation team (SIT) formed to probe the matter has made significant progress, particularly in tracking the activities of Pakistani national Ali Sheikh, who has been under scrutiny for his frequent visits to India and his alleged political interests in Assam.
Speaking to reporters, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed that Ali Sheikh was part of a larger Pakistani delegation that included the country’s attorney general. He alleged that Sheikh, along with the delegation, made multiple visits to India up until 2018 and deliberately stayed in small hotels to avoid drawing attention. The chief minister asserted that Assam Police was investigating the broader network connected to Sheikh and would not hesitate to involve Interpol if needed. He also confirmed that he had briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the developments.
Earlier, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the formation of a four-member SIT to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation. He stated that the Assam Police would ensure a professional and unbiased probe into the allegations. The SIT has been empowered to include inspectors, sub-inspectors, and other necessary personnel with the approval of the Assam Police Headquarters. The team will report directly to the state’s Director General of Police (DGP) at regular intervals.
Reacting to the allegations, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi maintained that he was open to any investigation and dismissed the claims as politically motivated. Responding to CM Himanta Biswa Sarma’s accusations, he clarified that his meeting with Pakistan’s then High Commissioner Abdul Basit was purely diplomatic and not secretive. Gogoi further pointed out that several BJP MPs had raised similar questions in Parliament regarding national security and defense matters.
The Congress leader also questioned the chief minister’s own foreign trips, asking him to clarify the purpose of his visits to Bangladesh, Dubai, and Singapore. He alleged that the BJP was sensing defeat in the upcoming Assam Assembly elections and was attempting to divert public attention with baseless accusations. Gogoi claimed that CM Himanta Biswa Sarma’s frequent social media attacks on him were a sign of nervousness, as the people of Assam were growing disillusioned with the ruling party’s politics.
Meanwhile, the Assam Police have registered an FIR against Ali Sheikh, citing his alleged professional association with Elizabeth Gogoi. The investigation is ongoing, and further developments are expected as the SIT continues its probe into the matter.
