Guwahati: With campaigning gathering pace in the high-stakes Jorhat Assembly constituency, Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) chief and Congress candidate Gaurav Gogoi has identified drug abuse as a central issue, alleging failure of the administration to effectively curb the problem.
Addressing campaign meetings across the Jorhat constituency on Tuesday, Gogoi said the rising prevalence of drugs and alcohol has become a serious social concern, particularly affecting women’s safety. He noted that many residents, especially women, face difficulties moving around after evening hours due to the worsening situation.
Describing substance abuse as a deep-rooted problem, Gogoi said it has spread across Assamese society and requires urgent intervention. He underlined that the Congress aims to work towards a drug-free Assam while offering a more constructive path for the state’s youth.
Expanding his campaign pitch, Gogoi emphasised the need for clean politics and governance driven by ideology and public interest. He argued that political transformation in Assam hinges on removing what he described as entrenched barriers within the current leadership, which, in his view, hinder transparent and development-oriented governance.
On development, Gogoi alleged that the ruling BJP’s approach is influenced by contractor-driven projects and commission-based decision-making, rather than addressing people’s needs. He contrasted this with the Congress’s focus on essential sectors such as healthcare infrastructure, flood management and scientific waste disposal.
Welcoming the entry of new candidates into the political arena, he said the Congress has sought to promote inclusivity by fielding a mix of women candidates and first-time contestants, drawing inspiration from the legacy of former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi while attempting to shape a renewed vision for the state.
The Jorhat constituency is witnessing a closely watched contest, with Gogoi pitted against BJP candidate and former Assembly Speaker Hitendra Nath Goswami. As both sides intensify their campaigns, Gogoi expressed confidence that voters across sections — including youth and government employees, are increasingly inclined towards cleaner governance, suggesting that the election could mark a significant shift in Assam’s political landscape.
According to his election affidavit, Gogoi has declared total assets worth over Rs 3.21 crore, including movable assets of about Rs 72.59 lakh and immovable assets valued at approximately Rs 2.49 crore. The affidavit also lists inherited properties in Guwahati and New Delhi, along with Rs 54,700 in cash.
His spouse, Elizabeth Clare Gogoi, a senior consultant, has declared movable assets exceeding Rs 4.36 crore, while assets have also been listed in the names of their two minor children.