Raijor Dal president Akhil Gogoi on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Assam Government following the arrest of Veer Lachit Sena leader Rantu Paniphukan. Gogoi alleged that the crackdown on the organisation was a deliberate move by the ruling BJP-led government to divert public attention from the growing demand for justice for popular singer Zubeen Garg.
Rantu Paniphukan, along with several members of Veer Lachit Sena, was produced before a local court on Tuesday after being detained by the Assam Police. The arrests have triggered a wave of political reactions and public debate across the state. Gogoi, who addressed reporters in Guwahati, said that the government’s actions were not only unfair but also politically motivated.
“We demand that Bikash Asom should not be arrested and that Rantu Paniphukan, along with others, be released immediately,” Gogoi stated, adding that there were reports of possible arrest moves against other members of the organisation. He accused the state government of using the police to silence voices that are standing with the people on social issues. 
The Raijor Dal leader questioned the BJP-led government’s sudden change in attitude towards Veer Lachit Sena. He recalled that only a month ago, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had publicly praised the group, saying that Assam needed organisations like them to protect Assamese identity and culture. “Just a month ago, Himanta Biswa Sarma praised Veer Lachit Sena. But now the same government is attacking them. What changed suddenly?” Gogoi asked.
According to Gogoi, the real reason behind the arrests lies in the organisation’s active participation in the movement demanding justice for Zubeen Garg. He said the government was afraid of a united public voice and was now trying to weaken the growing protest movement. “This crackdown began only after Veer Lachit Sena raised its voice for justice for Zubeen. The government fears the rising public anger,” he said.
Gogoi also claimed that the government’s approach showed double standards, as Veer Lachit Sena had earlier maintained friendly ties with those in power. “They were once close to the government, but today they are seeing the true face of Himanta Biswa Sarma,” he added.
However, Gogoi did not entirely defend the organisation. He admitted that Veer Lachit Sena’s past record included acts that were questionable and sometimes created unrest. “Yes, Veer Lachit Sena has demanded money from people, and I do not support that. But that does not justify the repressive actions being taken against them now,” he said.
Gogoi further alleged that the state government was using its machinery to target groups that challenge its authority or question its actions. He said that this trend of silencing voices of dissent is dangerous for democracy and public trust. “At this crucial time, when people across Assam are united in demanding justice for Zubeen, the government is trying to shift attention by attacking Veer Lachit Sena. It is clearly an attempt to mislead and weaken the people’s movement,” Gogoi said.
