Akhil Gogoi jailed for exposing Himanta's corruption: 'Narmada Bachao' leader Medha Patkar

GUWAHATI: Prominent activist Medha Patkar, known for her role in the 'Narmada Bachao' andolan, today launched a scathing attack on Assam Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma while leading the sea of humanity rallying in support of 'Raijor Dal' president Akhil Gogoi ahead of the first phase of the polls where she

"You've so far seen the terror of Himanta Biswa Sarma's corruption and highhandedness. Democratic protesters are framed as terrorists and put behind bars," Patkar, who was leading the pro-Akhil march alongside his mother Priyada, told media.

The 66-year-old Marathi social activist opined that Akhil has been locked up for exposing the corruption of the Assam government leaders, most notably Himanta Biswa Sarma.

"When Akhil exposed corruption, Himanta Biswa Sarma accused him of being an anarchist. Had he been an anarchist, he would have not suffered silently in jail. He is a fighter who treads on the path of ahimsa and non-violence," she added.

Patkar said that the people of Assam should elect Akhil from Sivasagar due to his concern for "genuine issues."

"Assam and the country are facing similar problems. There are several issues such as the question of land, agriculture, rivers, and democracy. To solve these issues, people should throw their weight behind someone like Akhil who in spite of being jailed under false charges is bravely contesting the polls," Medha Patkar said.

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The activist further warned that people should not vote for forces that are "dividing on the basis of community and religion."

Exuding hope that Akhil could script a major upset and secure his win, Patkar said, "The youths and women are with him. People are coming to the realization that the BJP is selling out the nation to the industrialists. They care not for the land and are only bothered about Ambani and Adani."

Accusing the BJP party of  "communal polarization" in the poll-bound states, the activist added that a "secular" candidate like Akhil would be a better fit to address the concerns of the Assamese people.

It is pertinent to mention here that the passage of the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act triggered a strong bout of protests in the state in December 2019. Activist Akhil Gogoi has been in jail since then under the draconian Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Gogoi, in custody for over a year now, is contesting the state polls from Sivasagar as an Independent candidate.

Elections to the 126-member Assam Assembly will be held in three phases on March 27, April 1 and 6. Counting of votes will take place on May 2.