Chief Minister said the documents cited by Khera were fabricated (Image: Internet)
New Delhi: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday warned Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera of strict action over allegations involving his wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, escalating an already heated political confrontation.
Sarma asserted that Assam Police would track down those responsible for spreading what he termed “false” claims, saying investigators could locate individuals “even from paatal (netherworld).”
Assam Police reach Pawan Khera’s residence over ‘Dual Passport’ allegations against Himanta’s wife
The controversy stems from allegations made by Congress leaders that Riniki Bhuyan Sarma holds multiple passports and owns undisclosed foreign assets. Rejecting the claims, the Chief Minister said the documents cited by Khera were fabricated.
He further alleged that the materials could be “AI-generated” or doctored content sourced from questionable online platforms, including foreign social media groups.
Sarma added that authorities would question Khera about the origin of the documents used to support the allegations.
The Assam Chief Minister also hinted at the possible involvement of Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, suggesting the matter could “extend” to him.
He criticised Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge for backing the allegations without verification, urging restraint before making public statements.
Responding to the controversy, Kharge said investigative agencies, which function under the central government, should examine the allegations. He noted that a case had already been registered against Khera and called for due process.
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh described the police action as a “witch hunt,” accusing the Assam government of using state machinery to silence opposition voices.
He claimed the deployment of police personnel outside Khera’s residence indicated political pressure rather than legitimate investigation.
The row began after Congress leaders alleged that Sarma’s wife holds passports from multiple countries and has links to properties and companies abroad. These claims were made during recent press briefings.
Sarma has firmly denied all allegations, maintaining that the documents are forged and politically motivated.
