Himanta alleges Pawan Khera sought militant help to influence Assam polls

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on March 12 alleged that senior Indian National Congress leader Pawan Khera had attempted to contact militant groups in the state to influence the upcoming Assembly elections, claiming that multiple FIRs have been registered and investigations are underway.

Speaking to reporters in Guwahati on March 12, Sarma said three to four cases have already been filed against Khera over the alleged attempt to establish contact with militant organisations in Assam.

“There are three to four cases already registered in the name of Pawan Khera for trying to contact some militant organisations in Assam to influence election results. Investigations are going on. Who will end up in jail—you will know after the elections,” Sarma said.

The chief minister’s remarks came shortly after Khera accused Sarma of corruption and criticised the BJP-led government in the state, calling for what he described as an “apology tour” by the Bharatiya Janata Party over issues related to development and illegal infiltration.

The exchange marks the latest escalation in political tensions in the state ahead of the next elections to the Assam Legislative Assembly, which are expected to be held in March or April 2026.

Illegal immigration and border security are likely to remain key campaign issues in the polls, with the BJP aiming to retain power for a third consecutive term while the Congress seeks to regain ground in the state.

Officials have not yet released details of the FIRs mentioned by the chief minister, and no formal response from Khera was immediately available following the allegation.