Congress candidate Bidisha Neog has filed an FIR at Jalukbari Police Station, alleging that her campaign convoy was attacked by BJP workers along the Maligaon–Pandu stretch on April 1.

In her complaint, Neog, who is contesting from the Jalukbari constituency, stated that she had secured all necessary permissions for campaigning and was travelling with her team from Borjhar via Azara towards Maligaon.

She alleged that a group of BJP workers initially blocked their route at a temporary roadside setup, hurling abuses and issuing threats. To avoid escalation, her team diverted to an alternate route.

However, according to Neog, the convoy was intercepted again at multiple locations, including near Pandu College Gate and Aruna Cinema Hall. The attackers were allegedly carrying BJP flags and shouting slogans invoking Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Violence, injuries, and damage to vehicles

The FIR states that several supporters, including women and elderly individuals, were assaulted with sticks, rods, and other objects. Multiple vehicles in the convoy were vandalised, with shattered windows and extensive damage reported.

Neog further alleged that motorbike riders accompanying the convoy were targeted, forcing some to abandon their vehicles and flee.

She claimed that she herself was physically assaulted and sustained injuries, while her husband and several party workers were seriously hurt. Allegations of harassment against women members of the team have also been raised, with reports of torn clothing during the incident.

Questions raised over police response

The complaint also questions the role of the police, alleging that despite their presence, the situation was not effectively controlled. Neog claimed that at one point, the attackers outnumbered the police personnel at the scene.

Following the incident, Neog and her team sought medical treatment at Central Hospital. She stated that the entire घटना was captured on video and that she is ready to submit the footage as evidence.

She has urged authorities to identify those involved, take strict legal action, and ensure adequate protection for her and her supporters.

Congress condemns incident

The Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) strongly condemned the alleged attack, calling it an assault on democratic processes.

In a statement, the party said, “During an election campaign rally in the Pandu area of Maligaon in support of Bidisha Neog, BJP workers obstructed the rally, assaulted Congress workers, and damaged several vehicles. We demand strict legal action against those responsible.”

The incident has added to rising political tensions in Assam, with calls for swift investigation and action ahead of the ongoing election campaign.

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