BJP leader levels extortion, threat charges against ATASU faction head; leader calls claims ‘baseless’

A complaint alleging extortion, criminal intimidation, and financial misconduct has been filed against Milan Buragohain, president of a faction of the All Tai Ahom Students’ Union, at the Sivasagar Sadar Police Station.

The complaint was lodged by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Lachit Gogoi, who alleged that Buragohain had borrowed Rs 15.50 lakh from him. According to the complaint, Rs 1.50 lakh was repaid initially, but the remaining Rs 14 lakh has not been returned despite repeated requests.

Gogoi further alleged that the dispute escalated when he sought repayment of the outstanding amount, claiming that Buragohain issued threats, including alleged death threats. He stated that a formal legal notice was served through his advocate seeking settlement of the dues, but no response was received.

Following this, Gogoi approached the police and filed an official complaint seeking legal action. Based on the complaint, Sivasagar Police summoned Buragohain for questioning. Police sources confirmed that he was examined in connection with the allegations, and a detailed inquiry is expected to follow.

Responding to the allegations, Buragohain denied any financial transaction with Gogoi and described the claims as “baseless” and “laughable.” Speaking to reporters within the police station premises, he said no case had been registered against him and that he had only been questioned by the police.

Buragohain also questioned the timing of the complaint, stating that if the alleged loan had been taken in 2023, the delay in raising the issue was unclear. He further claimed that there had been no communication between him and Gogoi since 2023, rejecting the allegations of threats.

He added that both factions of ATASU continue to work for the welfare of the community and suggested that the allegations may be part of a larger conspiracy, though he did not provide further details.

Police officials have not yet confirmed the registration of a formal case, and the matter remains under investigation.