Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly and senior Congress leader Debabrata Saikia has rejected allegations made against him by former AAMSU president Rejaul Karim Sarkar, who recently joined the Congress and later quit the party. Saikia termed the remarks made by Rejaul Karim as controversial and baseless, saying they have no connection with facts or his long public life.
Reacting to the accusations, Saikia said the statements made by Rejaul Karim after leaving the Congress were unfortunate. “He has labelled me a BJP agent. I do not know whether I should laugh or cry at such an allegation,” Saikia said, adding that his political stand has always been clear and consistent.
Saikia also rejected Rejaul Karim’s comments related to Dhubri and Sivasagar, saying both places have their own history, identity and importance in Assam. “Dhubri is Dhubri and Sivasagar is Sivasagar. Each has its own historical and cultural value. There should be no confusion or attempt to distort that,” he said. 
Speaking about identity, Saikia said that being Assamese and being Indian are not contradictory. “We are Assamese, and we are Indians. We have our pride, our feelings, our culture and our identity. Living in India does not mean we should lose our Assamese identity. We believe in our culture and traditions,” he said.
Referring to his political lineage, Saikia recalled the role of his father, former Assam Chief Minister Hiteswar Saikia. He said his father had taken part in the Assam Movement and later served as Chief Minister, always working for the upliftment of Assamese society and culture. “My values come from that background. My commitment to Assam and its people is well known,” he said.
Saikia also questioned why Rejaul Karim chose to brand him as a BJP agent, pointing out that he has remained with the Indian National Congress for decades. “I have been away from power for nearly 15 years. If I were an agent of the Bharatiya Janata Party, people would have seen clear proof by now,” he added.
The Congress leader said he has not said anything new and that his views have always been placed openly before the public. Saikia expressed confidence in the wisdom of the people and reiterated his loyalty to the Congress leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, saying he would continue to work honestly for the people of Assam and the country.
