Tinsukia (Assam), 21 January (HS): Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on Raijor Dal leader Akhil Gogoi, alleging that Gogoi is struggling to save his own political seat and is therefore engaging in political posturing.

Addressing reporters on the sidelines of a programme, Margherita said that Akhil Gogoi’s “own boat has a hole” and claimed that his recent political moves are driven by the compulsion to protect his constituency at any cost. He alleged that Gogoi is trying to appease Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi by reaching out to minority-dominated areas for political gain. Margherita was talking to media persons after a program at sadiya on Wednesday.

Separately, Margherita paid tribute to renowned folk artist late Gajen Narah at a condolence meeting held at the artist’s residence in Shadia. He said that Narah not only enriched the Missing community but made a lifelong contribution to the cultural heritage of the entire Assamese society.

Recalling the late artist’s journey, Margherita noted that since 1978, Gajen Narah had been associated with the creation, training and preservation of traditional and modern music through radio and cassette recordings. He said the state will always remember Narah’s dedication to art and culture.

The tribute programme was attended by local MLA Balen Chetia and members of the public, who gathered to remember the veteran artist and his enduring legacy.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash