Former AAMSU President Rejaul Karim Sarkar joins Congress, vows to fight fear and rebuild Assam

Several prominent political and social figures formally joined the Indian National Congress on Sunday, marking a significant boost for the party in Assam. Former AAMSU president Rejaul Karim Sarkar led the group of new entrants and was officially welcomed by Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Gaurav Gogoi.

Among those who joined the Congress were former BJP leader Manoj Kumar Mahanta, Rukma Medok, a retired professor and former president of the Mising Sangram Parishad (MMK), and Kaushik Hazarika, general secretary of the AGP Assam Youth Council. Medok is also known as a former associate of senior leader Ranoj Pegu.

Several former office-bearers of AAMSU also joined the party, including former adviser Azizul Haque, former vice-president Dilwar Hussain Khan, along with Hasanur Zaman and Sirajul Sarkar.

Speaking on the occasion, Rejaul Karim Sarkar said his decision was driven by concern over the state’s future. “I have seen difficult days ahead, and that is why I have come to the Congress,” he said.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the current situation in the state, Sarkar said he did not want to see an Assam divided by hatred and violence. “I do not want an Assam torn apart by hatred and conflict. Under the leadership of Gaurav Gogoi, we must bring back a peaceful and beautiful Assam,” he added.

Describing the Congress as a democratic platform, Sarkar said, “This is a forum where every issue can be raised openly, and together we can work to take Assam forward.”

Taking a dig at the state government, he referred to the Chief Minister’s claim that Assam would be among the top five states in the country. “We hear promises of Assam becoming one of the top states, but in reality, the state appears to be moving backwards,” he said.

Sarkar further emphasised the need for dignity and inclusive development. “We want an Assam where people can stand with their heads held high,” he said.

Highlighting issues faced by minority communities, Sarkar said he would work within the Congress to seek lasting solutions. “There are many problems faced by minorities, and I will strive from within this party to ensure permanent solutions,” he stated.

Revealing the timeline of his political transition, Sarkar said, “I left AAMSU on December 30, 2025. With the aim of promoting brotherhood among all people of Assam, irrespective of caste and religion, and to address the issues of my community, I have decided to begin a new journey by joining the Congress.”

Sarkar further said fear and uncertainty prevail among sections of society. “People are living in fear. I will stand as a soldier alongside Gaurav Gogoi and work to remove that fear,” he said

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