After CM’s Nudge, Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah Issues Public Apology to Media

Under mounting criticism, Assam Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah has issued a detailed public clarification following his derogatory remark directed at a journalist, a comment that sparked widespread outrage among the media fraternity.

In a statement released on social media, the minister attempted to clarify his position, asserting that he never intended to insult journalists as a community.

“My family has had a long-standing relationship with journalism. My father served as a local correspondent for the reputed daily ‘Dainik Asom’ for 22 years. From a young age, I’ve held deep respect for journalists — a respect that remains intact and will always remain so,” Baruah stated.

He went on to say that if his words caused any hurt, it was entirely unintentional:

“I never aimed to insult any journalist. If anyone felt hurt by my words, I sincerely apologize. I want to clarify that I did not speak with the intent to belittle anyone during that press interaction.”

Controversial Remarks Spark Political and Public Backlash

The controversy unfolded during a recent press meet, where a journalist from the Sadin-Pratidin Group asked the minister a direct question regarding his personal dairy farm, which allegedly houses 60–70 Gir cows. The farm had reportedly received government subsidies under a state-run scheme — raising serious concerns of conflict of interest and potential misuse of public funds.

This outburst wasn’t an isolated moment of frustration. Instead of addressing the serious query, the visibly agitated minister lashed out at the journalist, reportedly calling him a "lowly person". His remark triggered sharp condemnation from across the journalistic community and civil society.

The incident has been perceived by many as part of a troubling pattern among certain politicians — emboldened when benefiting from state mechanisms, but deeply insecure and aggressive when confronted with questions of public accountability.

Minister Alleges Targeted Attack by Specific Media Group

Baruah also claimed that his comments were taken out of context and used by a particular media house with the intention to malign him:

“The remark was made in the heat of the moment in response to repeated, pointed, and seemingly motivated questions by a journalist working under the influence of his media management’s private interests. I agree that I shouldn’t have said what I did. Although the comment was directed at one individual, the wider journalist community felt hurt — and that deeply pains me,” he said.

The minister further alleged that a senior editor from the media group has since been attempting to deliberately destroy his public image.

He urged everyone to understand the full context before forming opinions, adding:

“I respectfully request everyone not to misinterpret my intentions. I hope people will be fair and objective in their judgment, just as I have tried to be.”

CM Had Stepped In

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier apologized on behalf of Baruah and publicly stated that the minister should also issue an apology — a call that seems to have prompted this detailed statement.

While the clarification may have been intended as damage control, public sentiment remains divided. Many feel the incident reflects the increasing fragility of political leadership when subjected to journalistic scrutiny, especially over matters involving personal gain through public resources.

Also Read: Minister’s Misstep Forces CM’s Hand — A Rare Public Apology in Assam Politics