Family of fallen Kargil soldier Captain Jintu Gogoi has voiced their disapproval regarding Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi’s recent trip to Pakistan. Duluprabha Gogoi, the mother of Captain Gogoi, expressed her displeasure, stating, “He shouldn’t have gone there (Pakistan). Because Pakistan is our enemy country. A boy (Jintu Gogoi) martyred for the nation. I don’t like Gaurav Gogoi’s visit to Pakistan.” Her sentiment highlighted a strong emotional reaction to the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.
Political Fallout from the Visit
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on February 11 that the findings of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) concerning Gaurav Gogoi’s alleged connections to Pakistan would be amended and submitted to the central government for further inquiry. The announcement emerged after Gaurav Gogoi disclosed during a press conference on February 9 that he had visited Rawalpindi, which raised eyebrows among political leaders.
Counter-Accusations and Allegations
In response to Chief Minister Sarma’s “Pakistan link” allegations, Gaurav Gogoi challenged the accusations. He requested that the Supreme Court take suo-motu cognizance against the Chief Minister for revealing details about his children to the media. Gogoi’s assertions came after Sarma unveiled findings from the SIT investigation, claiming that Gaurav Gogoi, his British wife, Elizabeth Colburn Gogoi, and a Pakistani national, Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, share “deep links.” The political rivalry intensified as both sides exchanged accusations.
Gaurav Gogoi’s Press Conference Remarks
At a press conference held in Guwahati, Gaurav Gogoi criticized Chief Minister Sarma for disclosing personal information about his children. He stated, “He went to such a low level that he even disclosed information relating to my children. We know about his children as well; everyone knows it, but we don’t want to disclose it. He has proved that he is not the right person to be in the Chief Minister’s chair. What they are saying has shamed Assam. Why are they spreading false information?” His remarks reflect a strong defense against the allegations in question.
Context of National Sentiment and Political Rivalries
The incident adds to the ongoing climate of political tension in Assam, with various stakeholders expressing their views on national integrity and the complex relationship with neighboring countries. Duluprabha Gogoi’s emotional response underscores the sensitive nature of discussions surrounding interactions with Pakistan, especially given the historical context of military sacrifice in the Kargil War.