Political Turmoil in Assam: Congress Spokesperson Arrested Over Social Media Post

Ksiusha Johansson -

Assam witnessed a major political upheaval as Reetam Singh, the Congress spokesperson, found himself under arrest over a contentious social media post. Singh’s remarks questioning the legal status of BJP leaders sparked outrage and highlighted the increasing tensions between the state’s major political factions.

A High-Stakes Arrest Sparks Outcry

Reetam Singh’s arrest unraveled amid dramatic scenes at his home in Guwahati. As stated in Times of India, the arrest was executed by the Lakhimpur police, who were aided by the local Guwahati force, following a complaint lodged by the wife of BJP MLA Manab Deka. Singh’s post, shared on the platform X (previously known as Twitter), cast a critical light on the legal proceedings surrounding prominent BJP figures and drew significant attention.

The Controversy Behind the Post

On March 13, Singh’s post referenced a 2021 rape case and questioned whether BJP associates, whom he labeled “rape accused,” would receive similar judicial scrutiny. This bold statement catalyzed vigorous debate and scrutiny about the impartiality and transparency of justice in politically sensitive cases.

Resistance and Allegations of Political Vendetta

Visuals from Singh’s residence depicted a resistant stance against the arresting officers. The Congress party swiftly condemned this move, with MP Gaurav Gogoi attributing the arrest to a politically motivated attack. Gogoi’s assertions linked the timing to a visit by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, raising questions about the strategic implications of the police’s actions.

Singh, advocating his legal knowledge, expressed his resolve not to adhere to what he called a politically driven arrest without due notice. His insistence on a Gauhati High Court ruling demanding prior notice before arrest underscores a pressing issue regarding legal process adherence.

Silence from the BJP Amid Allegations

While Congress intensified its efforts to highlight perceived injustices, the BJP maintained an official silence on the arrest but leaked insights suggested an underlying narrative of defense against defamation cloaked in free speech. This silence could be interpreted as a strategic position amid rising legal tides in this contentious issue.

Awaiting Further Proceedings

With Singh being transferred to Lakhimpur, the upcoming legal proceedings are likely to stir further discourse on freedom of speech and political dynamics. The situation underscores a critical moment in Assam’s political landscape, one that could define the interplay between law enforcement and political expression moving forward.