Anti-CAA movement proves fighting spirit of Assamese: Former CM Tarun Gogoi

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: Former Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader Tarun Gogoi on Tuesday that the anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) movement has proved the fighting spirit of the Assamese people.

Addressing a press conference at official residence here on Tuesday, Gogoi who is now a sitting MLA said the anti-CAA movement was first started in Assam. He said the movement against the contentious legislation spread to other parts of the country only Assam took the lead.

Gogoi said there is no atmosphere to celebrate the New Year in the State. He considered December 11 and 12 when the police perpetrated atrocities and fired bullets on anti-CAA protestors, as black days in the history of Assam.

“The people of Assam have come to know about the real character of Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in the last part of 2019. The people initially took Sonowal to be a saint. But the people have now realized that Sonowal is a fake saint. The people have understood that Sonowal for the sake of remaining in power is going to sell Jati Mati Bheti,” Gogoi said.

Tarun Gogoi said even though the Congress and Left are supporting the anti-CAA movement, the parties are not leading the movement. He said students are taking the lead in the movement. But the government is blaming the Congress instead of students, he said, adding that such approach might due to strategic reasons. Daring Sonowal as how many illegal Bangladeshis have been deported by the BJP government, Gogoi demanded judicial inquiry into death of five youths in police firing during the anti-CAA protests. He said if necessary the Congress will move the court seeking justice to those killed in the recent protests.

Asked about the plan to float an alternative political platform, Gogoi said such front will have to be with the Congress. He said an alternative political platform cannot happen by leaving the Congress.

Also Read: We set up detention camp following Gauhati High Court order: Tarun Gogoi

Also Watch: Minister Pijush Hazarika rebuts claims of paid crowd at BJP peace rally in Jagi Road