Guwahati: Assam Lok Sabha MP and Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Gaurav Gogoi on Monday, February 9, questioned why the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged links involving him and his wife was not asked to interrogate him. Speaking at a press conference in Guwahati, Gogoi said he had made himself available to investigators and criticised the report as flawed.
The remarks came a day after Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma released details of the SIT findings at a press conference in Dispur and raised questions about Gogoi’s alleged 10-day visit to Pakistan.
Assam MP Gaurav Gogoi questioned why the SIT probing alleged Pakistan links did not interrogate him, saying he had made himself available. The exchange follows CM Himanta Biswa Sarma’s press briefing in Dispur, where the chief minister raised questions about Gogoi’s reported 10-day visit to Pakistan.
Gogoi’s Counter From Guwahati
At his media interaction, Gogoi asked why the SIT had not questioned him directly. “The SIT should have interrogated me, why didn’t they?” he said, adding that he was ready to cooperate. He described the report as a “flop show” and “bogus,” reiterating that he had nothing to hide.
Addressing questions about his reported Pakistan visit, Gogoi said he had travelled with his wife to see the place where she had previously worked with a non-governmental organisation. He stated that his movements during the visit were procedurally valid and that visa permissions could be extended with proper approval.
Visa and Travel Claims
CM Sarma had earlier questioned how Gogoi was able to travel beyond Lahore to Islamabad and Karachi if his visa was initially issued for Lahore. Gogoi responded that there was no procedural violation and that such travel could be permitted with official clearance.
He also said he visited Taxila during the trip. In response, Sarma posted on social media that Taxila falls within the Rawalpindi district and asked who facilitated Gogoi’s movement there. The chief minister further noted that the Pakistan Army’s General Headquarters is located in Rawalpindi, raising additional concerns.
Political Exchanges Intensify in Guwahati
The back-and-forth statements have intensified political debate in Guwahati, where both leaders addressed the media within a short span. While the state government has decided to forward the SIT report to central authorities for further action, Gogoi has continued to deny any wrongdoing.
The matter remains under review, and no court has adjudicated the claims made by either side.
What Happens Next
The SIT report is expected to be forwarded to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs for examination. Central agencies will determine whether further inquiry or questioning is required. Political reactions in Guwahati are likely to continue as the issue unfolds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Gaurav Gogoi question the SIT?
He asked why he was not interrogated despite being available for questioning during the investigation.
What did the Chief Minister allege?
CM Sarma raised questions about Gogoi’s reported 10-day visit to Pakistan and visa-related movements.
Has Gogoi admitted to wrongdoing?
No. Gogoi has denied any wrongdoing and said his travel was procedurally valid.
What happens next in the case?
The SIT report is expected to be examined by central authorities, who will decide on further action.
