Lurinjyoti Gogoi alleges attack on press freedom, claims journalists facing death threats

Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) president Lurinjyoti Gogoi on March 25 said that a movement to remove the BJP from power in Assam has begun, while addressing a rally of the Opposition Unity Forum at Sarbhog in the Bhawanipur-Sarbhog constituency.

Gogoi said the BJP has failed to safeguard the interests of Assam and alleged that Clause 6 of the Assam Accord has not been implemented till date. He also claimed that instead of detecting and deporting illegal foreigners, the government has facilitated their settlement in the state.

He further alleged that people are coming out against corruption centred around families in power and against what he described as authoritarian governance. “The people will take a decision against corruption and any attempt to weaken the democratic system,” he said.

Referring to alleged land-related irregularities, Gogoi remarked, “The people will now calculate whether 1,250 bighas or 12,000 bighas carry more weight,” suggesting that voters would judge the government on such issues.

Speaking on the issue concerning singer Zubeen Garg, Gogoi claimed that it has become clear that the artiste was killed in a planned manner. He alleged that justice has not been delivered and said if justice is not ensured, people should reconsider extending their support to the ruling party. He also claimed that the singer’s memorial site has not yet been constructed, which, according to him, reflects injustice.

On the recent incident in Sivasagar where newspapers were allegedly set on fire in broad daylight, Gogoi termed it an attack on journalism and freedom of the press. He alleged that the situation has worsened to the extent that journalists are being threatened with death and claimed to have proof that some media persons have received life threats.

Leaders and supporters of allied opposition parties were present at the rally as part of a joint campaign ahead of the elections.