Thu Feb 12 09:07:24 UTC 2026: ### Sarma Files ₹500 Crore Defamation Suit; Court Restrains Congress Leaders

The Story: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has filed a ₹500 crore defamation case against Congress leaders Gaurav Gogoi, Bhupesh Baghel, and Jitendra Singh, as well as an unnamed Assamese daily. A court in Guwahati has issued an ‘ad-interim injunction’ restraining the defendants from making further “defamatory statements” until their appearance in court on March 9, 2026. The CM alleges that the Congress leaders made baseless allegations regarding his assets and wealth, particularly concerning the control of 12,000 bigha of land.

According to the Chief Minister’s counsel, details of Sarma’s properties and assets have been consistently declared in election affidavits since 2001, and he has regularly declared his assets as required by state government rules. He has also been a regular income tax assessee for over 30 years. The Congress party is accused of attempting to gain political advantage by defaming the CM ahead of upcoming state elections.

Key Points

  • Himanta Biswa Sarma, Assam CM, filed a ₹500 crore defamation case.
  • Defendants include Congress leaders Gaurav Gogoi, Bhupesh Baghel, Jitendra Singh, and an Assamese daily.
  • A Guwahati court issued an ‘ad-interim injunction’ restraining the defendants from making further defamatory statements.
  • The court appearance is scheduled for March 9, 2026.
  • The CM claims allegations of controlling 12,000 bigha of land are baseless.
  • The CM’s counsel asserts that all assets have been declared in election affidavits and income tax filings since 2001.
  • Congress is accused of defaming the CM for political gain before state elections.

Key Takeaways

  • Defamation suits are becoming an increasingly common tool in Indian politics.
  • The timing of the lawsuit before state elections suggests a strategic attempt to control the narrative and mitigate potential damage to the CM’s reputation.
  • The court’s decision to issue an interim injunction highlights the seriousness with which it is treating the allegations.
  • The Congress party is likely to frame this as an attack on free speech and an attempt to silence political opposition.
  • The issue of asset declaration by politicians remains a contentious issue in India.

    Read More

Related News: