'Why Is Assam Congress Silent': Amit Shah Targets Rahul Gandhi Over Gamucha Row

Last Updated:January 30, 2026, 13:23 IST

Amit Shah questioned why Congress remained silent when Rahul Gandhi did not wear the traditional gamucha at the President’s Republic Day reception.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah. (File photo)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah challenged Assam’s Congress leadership over what he described as Rahul Gandhi’s disregard for the state’s cultural traditions, questioning why the party had remained silent when the Congress leader did not wear the traditional gamucha at the President’s Republic Day reception.

Speaking at a public event in Dibrugarh, Amit Shah intensified the Bharatiya Janata Party’s critique of the Opposition amid the controversy surrounding the Assamese scarf, which holds deep cultural significance across Assam and the broader Northeast.

“Only Rahul Gandhi did not put on the Northeast gamucha," Amit Shah said, adding, “What kind of enmity does he have with the Northeast?" He contrasted Rahul Gandhi’s conduct with that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that the PM has worn the gamucha on international stages, including the United Nations, as a mark of respect for the region.

Amit Shah emphasized that individual actions would not determine the endurance of regional traditions. “Rahul Gandhi may do what he wishes, but the culture of the Northeast will continue to flourish," he said.

The remarks came after photographs and videos from the Republic Day reception circulated online. BJP leaders, including Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, said Rahul Gandhi’s actions reflected an “anti-Northeast" stance. The Congress rejected the allegation, noting that Rahul Gandhi had initially worn the patka and later removed it while seated. The party also pointed out that several other leaders present, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, were seen without the gamucha at various points, accusing the BJP of selectively politicizing a ceremonial event.

Amit Shah Targets Congress On Immigration

Amit Shah extended his criticism beyond the cultural dispute, accusing the Congress of encouraging illegal immigration in border states like Assam to consolidate a political vote bank.

“By allowing illegal immigration, the Congress only strengthened its vote bank," he said.

Amit Shah also praised the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led Assam government for implementing its decision to designate Dibrugarh as the state’s second capital, noting that the foundation stone for a new legislative assembly complex had been laid on 250 acres.

“In the past, we saw governments where announcements remained only announcements," Amit Shah said, asserting, “Here, when a decision was taken, it was implemented."

He added that the initiative would enhance Dibrugarh’s political and administrative profile, ensuring that residents of the city would be recognized nationally as living in one of Assam’s capitals.

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