September 24, 2024: In a shocking development, a major corruption scandal has erupted within the Assam unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), undermining Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s claims of a "corruption-free Assam." Allegations have surfaced that BJP leaders are engaging in fraudulent activities, with reports indicating they have looted the state through elaborate schemes.

Recent investigations by the Crime Branch have led to the arrest Ashim Das, General Secretary of the BJP Scheduled Castes Morcha, highlighting the depth of the scandal. Including Ashim Das, Crime Branch has also arrested a retired publicity officer of Directorate of Small Savings, Birinchi Barkotoki during the raid. Both are accused of orchestrating a scheme involving the issuance of fake work orders linked to the Adivasi Social Development Council, resulting in the embezzlement of at least ₹50 million.

Sources allege that the fraud was designed to mislead the public, creating a false narrative of development while siphoning off substantial funds. It is reported that the fake work orders were facilitated by a contractor based in New Delhi, who was even introduced to a minister by Ashim Das, further complicating the situation.

In the wake of these revelations, the BJP has moved swiftly to exempt Das from all party responsibilities, as the leadership grapples with the fallout from these serious allegations. The scandal has ignited outrage among the public and opposition leaders, who are calling for greater accountability and transparency within the government.