Assam: State BJP to take disciplinary action against BJP leader Akash Phukan over viral audio clip

The Assam unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will soon take strict disciplinary action against Bokakhat BJP leader Akash Phukan, following the circulation of a controversial audio recording in which he allegedly used abusive language against state Education Minister Ranoj Pegu. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that if the audio’s authenticity is verified, the party will not hesitate to act decisively, emphasizing that such behavior is unbecoming of any BJP member.  

The controversy intensified after Advocate Ganesh Pegu filed an FIR against Phukan at Dispur Police Station, Guwahati, accusing him of spreading misinformation about the education minister. The FIR alleges that Phukan falsely portrayed Minister Ranoj Pegu as working in favor of the Mising community while criticizing his performance.  

In the audio clip, Phukan can be heard hurling abuses at the minister, accusing him of incompetence in managing the education department. He also distanced himself from Pegu, declaring, "Ranoj Pegu is not my leader; my leader is Himanta Biswa Sarma."  

Phukan further claimed in the recording that BJP Lok Sabha MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa had allegedly taken ₹20 lakh from him. "Leave aside Ranoj Pegu; only two BJP leaders have rights over the Dergaon constituency, and one of them is Kamakhya Prasad Tasa. He took ₹20 lakh from me, but that’s another matter," Phukan stated.  

 The controversy reportedly stems from a dispute over a tender awarded to contractor Gobin Pegu for constructing a bridge. Phukan claimed his influence secured the tender for Gobin Pegu and demanded a commission. When his demands were not met, he allegedly unleashed a barrage of expletives against Minister Ranoj Pegu.  

The derogatory remarks have sparked outrage, leading the Mising community to ban Phukan from entering their regions in Assam. While Phukan has issued an apology for his comments, the BJP leader faces mounting criticism and awaits formal action from the party.