'I went to Pakistan, my wife worked there for a year': Gaurav Gogoi admits

A political storm has erupted in Assam after Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi publicly acknowledged his visit to Pakistan over a decade ago, triggering sharp accusations from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. 

While Gogoi clarified that the 2013 trip was tied to his wife's professional assignment, the Chief Minister has alleged deeper links with the Pakistani establishment, promising to unveil explosive findings from a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on September 10.

Gogoi, speaking at the AICC office in Delhi, noted, "Even I, 11-12 years ago in 2013, I have gone to Pakistan along with my wife and based on this, Assam CM is trying to make a 'C' grade movie which will be released on September 10." 

He emphasised that his wife's professional obligations as a public policy analyst took them there in 2011 for a climate project.

The Assam Chief Minister has countered Gogoi's admission with grave allegations, suggesting Gogoi's ties with the Pakistani establishment.

"There exists every reasonable ground, supported by credible inputs and documented information, to suggest that Gogoi has maintained proximity with the Pakistani establishment," the Chief Minister wrote on social media. 

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The Assam government plans to release the findings from a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on the matter this September.

Gogoi has pushed back against the allegations, questioning the timing and motives behind their emergence. 

"Further, we want to question Assam CM, if the said allegation is true and we have done anything wrong then whose government is in power for the last 11-12 years... what is the central investigation agency doing," he stated, highlighting what he perceives as political manoeuvring with elections approaching.

The Chief Minister’s allegations have extended to the Congress party and Rahul Gandhi, accusing them of promoting a compromised individual into public life. 

Meanwhile, Gogoi insists on the transparency of his public record, questioning the lack of action from the government and investigation agencies over the past decade.

The Government of Assam has reiterated its commitment to transparency, with the Chief Minister asserting that the SIT's findings will be fully disclosed to the public. 

"The Government of Assam, committed to transparency and accountability, will make everything public on 10th September," the Chief Minister stated, promising the people of Assam and the nation the complete truth.

As the political confrontation continues, Gogoi remains firm in his stance, arguing that the allegations are politically motivated. He maintains that his party's leadership has dismantled any doubts regarding his actions, suggesting the accusations are part of an "election mindset."