Guwahati, 09 February (HS): Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday made a series of pointed remarks while responding to questions raised by Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Gaurav Gogoi, asserting that parents have no authority to alter the citizenship of their children.

Talking to the media after attending a programme, the Chief Minister said that just as parents cannot arbitrarily change a child’s caste or religion, they also cannot change the citizenship status of their offspring. He posed a rhetorical question to underline his point, asking whether parents have the right to alter a child’s nationality at will.

Reacting to Gogoi’s statements and counter-questions, Dr. Sarma said he would welcome any legal scrutiny and added that he has no objection if the matter is taken to a juvenile court. Emphasising transparency, the Chief Minister stated that he had already produced relevant documents, including passport and visa details and questioned what further proof could be demanded.

Dr. Sarma further claimed that none of the statements he has made on the issue could be termed false, asserting that Gaurav Gogoi has not been able to refute any of his claims. The Chief Minister’s comments came amid an ongoing political exchange between the ruling BJP and the Congress over citizenship-related issues.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash