Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday announced that he will initiate civil and criminal defamation proceedings against senior Congress leaders over allegations made during a press conference earlier in the day, escalating the political confrontation in Assam ahead of upcoming elections.
The announcement, made through a social media post, has drawn sharp attention in Guwahati’s political circles, where the press interaction and the Chief Minister’s response dominated discussions throughout the day.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced civil and criminal defamation cases against senior Congress leaders over alleged defamatory statements made during a press conference. The legal action, scheduled to begin on February 9, 2026, has intensified political tensions in Assam, with Guwahati at the centre of the unfolding developments.
Legal Action Announced After Press Conference
According to the Chief Minister, the defamation cases will be initiated on February 9, 2026, against Congress leaders Jitendra Singh Alwar, Bhupesh Baghel, Gaurav Gogoi, and Debabrata Saikia.
In his post, Sarma alleged that the leaders made “false, malicious and defamatory statements” against him during the press conference held earlier in the day.
Chief Minister’s Public Statement
Announcing his decision, Sarma stated that he would pursue both civil and criminal remedies. He also issued a strong political rebuttal, asserting that he would not be deterred by what he described as “propaganda” and “coordinated slander.”
The Chief Minister challenged the Congress leaders to substantiate their allegations before a court of law, indicating that the matter would now move from political discourse to judicial scrutiny.
Political Reactions in Guwahati
The development has heightened political activity in Guwahati, which serves as the state’s administrative and media hub. Leaders from both the ruling party and the opposition addressed the issue throughout the day, while the press conference and subsequent announcement dominated local news cycles.
Political observers in the city note that the legal move adds a new dimension to the ongoing rivalry between the ruling BJP government and the Congress in Assam.
What Happens Next
With the defamation cases set to be initiated in February 2026, the focus is expected to shift to legal proceedings and court hearings. Congress leaders named in the announcement have not yet issued a detailed public response to the Chief Minister’s statement.
As Assam moves closer to the election season, the case is likely to remain a significant point of political debate, particularly in Guwahati, where major political narratives often take shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has announced the defamation case?
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that he will file civil and criminal defamation cases over statements made during a press conference.
When will the legal proceedings begin?
According to the Chief Minister’s statement, the proceedings are scheduled to be initiated on February 9, 2026.
