‘Those who truly wanted to come found their way’: Himanta reacts to Akhil Gogoi’s oath ceremony invite claim

Himanta Biswa Sarma, who was sworn in for a second consecutive term as Assam chief minister, on May 13 responded to allegations made by two-time MLA Akhil Gogoi over not being invited to the chief minister’s oath-taking ceremony, saying those who genuinely wished to attend would have found a way to be present.

Sarma made the remarks while interacting with reporters during his visit to the memorial of Gopinath Bordoloi at Silphukhuri on Wednesday.

Responding to Gogoi’s allegation, the chief minister said, “Everyone attended the ceremony. Those who truly wanted to come from their heart made their way. Even if someone watched it on television, that is also fine.”

He added that over one crore people had voted for the ruling alliance in the state, but it was not possible for everyone to be physically present at the event.

“More than one crore people blessed us through their votes. Not everyone can attend such a programme physically. Many watched it on television, and that blessing is equally important,” Sarma said.

The reaction came after Raijor Dal leader and Sibsagar MLA Akhil Gogoi claimed that he was neither invited nor informed about the oath-taking ceremony held at Veterinary Field.

Expressing surprise over the matter, Gogoi told reporters that despite being a two-time elected MLA, he did not receive an invitation to the important state event.

He also pointed out that chief ministers from several states, along with thousands of BJP leaders and supporters, attended the swearing-in ceremony, questioning why a sitting opposition MLA was left out.

Meanwhile, the newly sworn-in Assam government led by Himanta Biswa Sarma is scheduled to hold its first cabinet meeting at 2 pm on Wednesday at the State Guest House. The meeting comes shortly after the BJP-led alliance returned to power in Assam for a third consecutive term.