An alleged attack on Sunil Chhetri, the opposition unity candidate from the Naduar constituency, has triggered sharp political reactions and raised concerns over the safety of democratic processes in Assam ahead of the Assembly elections.
According to reports, the incident took place near the Napam Bypass area, where Chhetri was allegedly targeted by members of a rival political group. He was immediately taken to Chariduar CHC for first aid. Allegations suggesting possible involvement of individuals linked to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have further intensified the controversy.
The Asom Jatiya Parishad (AJP) strongly condemned the incident, calling it a “direct attack on democracy.” In a statement, party president Lurinjyoti Gogoi and general secretary Jagadish Bhuyan alleged that the BJP, having lost public support, was resorting to violence and intimidation. The party warned that such actions would not be tolerated and asserted that the people of Assam would respond decisively through the ballot.
The Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh (BGP) also expressed deep shock and outrage, terming the incident a cowardly act and a serious threat to democratic values. The organisation demanded an immediate and impartial investigation, strict punishment for those involved, and enhanced security for Chhetri.
BGP Secretary General Nanda Kirati Dewan urged authorities to take swift action, stating that if any political figure is found to have orchestrated the attack, they should be barred from contesting elections following due investigation by the Election Commission of India.
Chhetri, a candidate of the Indian National Congress, is a former president of the All Assam Gorkha Students’ Union and is regarded as an influential young leader advocating for the rights of the Gorkha community. He is contesting against sitting MLA Padma Hazarika of the BJP.
With election campaigning intensifying, the incident has raised serious concerns about maintaining a free, fair, and peaceful electoral environment in the state.
