The controversy involves allegations of foreign assets and multiple passports related to the Chief Minister’s family. Himanta Biswa Sarma, who has been at the helm of Assam’s government, is now under scrutiny following claims made by Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera. Khera alleged that Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, holds passports from three different countries: the UAE, Antigua and Barbuda, and Egypt. These claims have raised eyebrows and sparked a heated political debate in the region.
During a press conference on April 5, 2026, Khera asserted that Riniki Bhuyan Sarma possesses a ‘golden card’ issued in Abu Dhabi, valid until March 13, 2027, along with two other passports—one from Antigua and Barbuda issued on August 26, 2021, and another from Egypt issued on February 13, 2022. He also alleged that she owns luxury properties in Dubai and has significant investments in the United States, including a company with a budget of $34.67 billion in Wyoming.
In response to these allegations, Himanta Biswa Sarma threatened to sue Khera for defamation within 48 hours, labeling the claims as “malicious, fabricated, and politically motivated lies aimed at misleading the people of Assam.” Sarma emphasized that such accusations reflect the Congress party’s “deep frustration and panic” as they face the upcoming elections. He stated, “Truth will prevail. Those spreading misinformation will be held accountable.” This statement underscores the seriousness with which Sarma is treating the allegations.
Observers note that the political landscape in Assam is becoming increasingly charged as the state prepares for elections, with 126 Assembly seats at stake. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under Sarma’s leadership, aims to secure at least 100 seats in the upcoming elections. The timing of Khera’s claims raises questions about the motivations behind them, especially as Sarma suggested that the allegations hint at attempts to relocate abroad after losing elections.
As the situation develops, both parties are preparing for a potential legal battle. Sarma’s assertion that he and his wife will file both criminal and civil defamation cases against Khera indicates that the Chief Minister is not willing to let these allegations go unchallenged. The political ramifications of this controversy could be significant, affecting not only Sarma’s reputation but also the BJP’s standing in Assam.
While Khera’s claims have stirred public interest and debate, details remain unconfirmed. The allegations regarding Riniki Bhuyan Sarma’s multiple passports and foreign assets, if proven true, could have serious implications for the Sarma family and the BJP’s governance in Assam. As both sides prepare for the next steps, the public awaits further developments in this unfolding political drama.
The wider picture reveals a tense political atmosphere in Assam, where allegations and counter-allegations are becoming commonplace as parties gear up for the elections. With the stakes high, the outcome of this controversy could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Assam’s political landscape.
