The wider picture
The controversy surrounding Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam, has taken a significant turn as allegations emerge regarding foreign assets and multiple passports linked to his family. This situation has escalated tensions between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress party, setting the stage for a heated political battle as Assam approaches its Assembly elections.
During a press conference on April 5, 2026, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera made serious allegations against Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife. Khera claimed that she holds passports from three different countries: the UAE, Antigua and Barbuda, and Egypt. He further alleged that she owns luxury properties in Dubai and has substantial investments in the United States, raising questions about the financial dealings of the Chief Minister’s family.
In response to these allegations, Himanta Biswa Sarma did not hold back. He threatened to sue Khera for defamation within 48 hours, describing the claims as “malicious, fabricated, and politically motivated lies aimed at misleading the people of Assam.” Sarma emphasized that such accusations reflect the Congress party’s “deep frustration and panic” as they face the upcoming elections.
Khera’s claims included specific details about the passports, stating that one of them is a ‘golden card’ issued in Abu Dhabi, valid until March 13, 2027. He also mentioned the Antigua and Barbuda passport, issued on August 26, 2021, and valid until August 25, 2031, as well as an Egyptian passport issued on February 13, 2022, valid until February 12, 2029. These assertions have raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about the legality and implications of holding multiple passports.
Sarma’s rebuttal was firm, asserting that he and his wife would pursue both criminal and civil defamation cases against Khera. He claimed that the allegations suggest attempts to relocate abroad after losing elections, further intensifying the political stakes in Assam, which has a total of 126 Assembly seats.
As the situation unfolds, observers are keenly watching how this controversy will impact the political landscape in Assam. With the BJP aiming to secure 100 seats in the upcoming elections, the party’s response to these allegations will be crucial in maintaining public confidence. Sarma concluded his statements by asserting, “Truth will prevail. Those spreading misinformation will be held accountable,” signaling his determination to counter the allegations head-on.
Details remain unconfirmed, but the implications of this controversy could resonate far beyond the immediate political arena, potentially influencing voter sentiment as the election date approaches. The unfolding drama between Sarma and Khera is emblematic of the fierce political rivalries that characterize Indian politics today.
