Minister Pijush Hazarika Accuses Gaurav Gogoi of Violating Election Code During Silent Period

Guwahati: Assam Minister Pijush Hazarika has accused Congress Member of Parliament (MP) Gaurav Gogoi of violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during the recent by-election in Behali. Hazarika claims that Gogoi, along with his party members, continued campaigning even after the “silent period” had begun, and that he visited polling booths on election day, actions which are prohibited under election law.According to Hazarika, despite the commencement of the “silent period” — a time when no campaigning is allowed 48 hours before polling — Gogoi remained in the constituency and continued his campaign. Hazarika called on the Congress MP to explain why he disregarded the Election Commission’s guidelines, stating, “Instead of returning, he stayed in Behali and campaigned openly after the silent period began.”The minister expressed his surprise at the behavior of the seasoned politician, who, according to Hazarika, should have known better. He pointed out that while his own party members complied with election rules and vacated the area, Gogoi and other Congress leaders allegedly ignored these guidelines. Hazarika also raised questions about whether Gogoi felt above the law due to his family background — being the son of former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi — suggesting that he may have assumed his influence would shield him from scrutiny.“Does he believe he is above the law just because of his family’s legacy? The Constitution applies to all citizens equally,” Hazarika remarked, calling the alleged violation a serious breach of democratic principles.The BJP leader also claimed that the party had photographic evidence showing Congress workers campaigning at various polling booths during the restricted period. The BJP plans to submit this evidence to the Election Commission for further investigation.Despite the allegations, Hazarika remained confident in the BJP’s prospects, emphasizing that the public’s support, rather than any political maneuvering, would ensure their victory in the election. He concluded by questioning the integrity of such actions, asking whether such behavior could ever be justified in a fair democratic process.