Guwahati, April 1: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi launched a frontal attack on the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led government on Wednesday, accusing the administration of presiding over a “mafia and syndicate rule” in Assam. Addressing a massive public meeting in Nazira, Gandhi urged voters to reject what she termed a “government of double-slavery” and instead support a Congress-led administration focused on public welfare and cultural preservation.

“This is a corrupt government. Everything is being done through threats and fear,” Gandhi told reporters, asserting that the public is exhausted by the current regime’s self-interest. She positioned Gaurav Gogoi as an honest alternative, stating that the people of Assam are ready for a leadership that prioritizes service over intimidation.

Gandhi also directly addressed the Chief Minister’s allegations that the Congress is politicizing the 2025 death of cultural icon Zubeen Garg. Rejecting the charge, she argued that seeking justice for a figure revered by the public is a fundamental political duty. “When there is a public demand for justice for someone they respect, isn’t it our duty to say we will make every effort to provide it? How is that politicization?” she questioned.

As the state moves toward a single-phase election for all 126 seats on April 9, Gandhi’s visit underscores the Congress’s strategy to capitalize on anti-incumbency and regional sentiments. With the BJP-led NDA seeking a third consecutive term alongside allies AGP and BPF, the Congress is banking on a narrative of “honesty versus corruption” to regain power when votes are counted on May 4.