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Controversy Erupts in Assam as Cabinet Minister’s Remarks Spark Outrage in Goalpara

Guwahati, March 27: A storm is brewing in Assam’s Goalpara district after a senior cabinet minister’s thoughtless comments sparked widespread outrage and condemnation. Health and Family Welfare Minister Ashok Singhal’s remarks, made during an election campaign rally for the upcoming Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council polls, have been met with stern opposition from political leaders across party lines.

According to reports, Singhal stated that Goalpara is characterized by long beards, skullcaps, and pyjamas, a specific sect of people identifying the district. He also questioned the need for pyjamas to be worn six inches above the feet, expressing his apparent confusion. This comment has drawn severe criticism from various leaders, with some labeling them as “divisive and inappropriate.”

West Goalpara MLA A.K. Rashid Mandal, a member of the opposition, lashed out at Singhal, accusing him of attempting to incite communal tensions for electoral gains. “As a cabinet minister, he has come to Goalpara to stoke unrest. He should not use such divisive language just to win votes. Goalpara has a rich history of coexistence among Hindus and Muslims, and statements like these only create disharmony,” Mandal stated.

AIDUF legislator Hafiz Rofikul Islam also joined the chorus, questioning Singhal’s understanding of the state’s cultural diversity. “Ashok Singhal does not know the history or culture of Goalpara. His insensitive words prove that he is unfit to be a minister. He is not even an Assamese; he comes from a business background and should return to it instead of dividing people,” Islam said.

The opposition has escalated their demand for accountability and action against Singhal, with some even calling for his removal from the cabinet. Congress leader Ripun Bora criticized the BJP for repeatedly targeting the Muslim community in their political speeches. “BJP leaders keep bringing up Muslims in their speeches. First, Sudhanshu Tiwari called Assam a ‘Mini Bangladesh’, and now this. If the government truly believes this, why don’t they take action? When I visit Goalpara, I see people from all communities, not just Muslims. But for the BJP, it seems that only one community exists in Goalpara,” Bora said.

As the controversy continues to simmer, the people of Goalpara are left reeling, demanding a more inclusive and sensitive approach from their leaders. For now, Singhal remains quiet on the issue, leaving many wondering what will be the next step in this unfolding drama.

Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/deeply-inappropriate-opposition-slams-singhals-skullcap-pyjama-remark-on-goalpara-1572509
Category : Assam,Featured
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Publish Date: 2025-03-27 17:30:00