The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Assam): In Kokrajhar, Assam, a contentious image circulating online showing a suspended member of the United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) asleep amidst a large amount of cash has become the center of controversy as the Lok Sabha elections approach. The opposition has seized this moment to criticize the BJP-led coalition, accusing it of indulging in corrupt practices, with UPPL being a coalition partner in Assam.
The photograph in question features Benjamin Basumatary, previously associated with the UPPL as a Village Council Development Committee member, lying on a bed covered only with a traditional towel and surrounded by Rs 500 notes. The authenticity of this image has not been confirmed by PTI independently. Basumatary, addressing the media, contended that the photo, which is five years old, resurfaced due to a political plot aimed at tarnishing his image. He recounted an incident from the past where he was blackmailed with this very picture, taken during a lighthearted moment at a party after borrowing Rs 3 lakh from his sister.
In response to the uproar, the UPPL has distanced itself from Basumatary and the controversial photo, confirming his suspension and removal from his VCDC role. Pramod Boro, UPPL’s chief and the Chief Executive Member of the Bodoland Territorial Council, disclosed that disciplinary measures against Basumatary were initiated early this year, culminating in his suspension and removal in February 2024, based on the contentious photograph.
Amid the controversy, the All India Congress Committee highlighted the photo on social media, arguing that the incident reflects poorly on the BJP and its allies, insinuating a deep-seated corruption within the coalition. Similarly, Debabrata Saikia, a leader from the Congress, demanded a thorough investigation, labeling the image as a blatant display of corruption that necessitates immediate scrutiny.
Boro, countering the accusations, criticized the opposition for jumping to conclusions based on unverified information and defended UPPL’s reputation by emphasizing its principled foundation. He also shared a video of Basumatary offering clarifications regarding the photo, stating that it was an old picture taken during a casual gathering among friends, and the money shown was borrowed from his sister, aiming to dispel any associations of the image with the UPPL’s integrity.