Assam CM Himanta Sarma steps up attack on ‘Gen Z’ candidate over beef controversy

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has intensified his attack on Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) candidate Kunki Choudhury over a controversy linked to alleged beef consumption, escalating tensions ahead of the state elections.

Sarma alleged that Kunki Choudhury and her mother, Sujata Gurung Choudhury, were involved in consuming beef, an issue he said violates the state’s legal and cultural framework.

Referring to Assam’s cattle preservation law, the Chief Minister said that any violation could invite legal action. “If anyone violates the law, they will be jailed for three years,” he said, adding that he would not “spare those who eat cow meat” and may file an FIR in such cases.

The remarks come amid an ongoing political row triggered by allegations linked to social media activity associated with the candidate’s family.

Earlier, Sarma had claimed that posts showed beef consumption and contained remarks that hurt religious sentiments.

The controversy has gained traction during the election campaign, with protests reported at Choudhury’s rally in Guwahati, where slogans were raised against her candidature.

Responding to the allegations, Kunki Choudhury denied the claims and accused the BJP of circulating manipulated content. She alleged that an AI-generated video targeting her was being spread by the BJP’s IT cell.

The issue has added to the charged political atmosphere in Assam, with both sides exchanging accusations as campaigning intensifies.