Akhil Gogoi Slams ONGC, Demands Arrest in Bhatiapar Leak Case

The persistent gas leakage from rig number 147 at Bhatiapar in Assam’s Sivasagar district has entered a critical phase, prompting the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) to explore emergency alternatives and seek foreign expertise to contain the crisis. After a series of failed attempts to cap the leak, ONGC has now prepared an abandoned oil field on a war footing to implement a diversion method, aimed at redirecting the leaking gas from the active rig to the safer, unused site.

A team from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has finally taken cognisance of the issue, as authorities expedite all possible measures. ONGC is reportedly considering the use of the “diversion” technique at the abandoned rig site to manage the situation. Sources have also indicated that a team of technical experts from the United States is likely to arrive within the next two days. The American specialists are expected to apply the "capping" method first, and if unsuccessful, a fourth diversion strategy will be deployed.

Meanwhile, the crisis has triggered major concerns over the status and safety of contract-based workers at the site. Several critical questions are now being raised: Who is being made the scapegoat among the contract workers? Will they lose their jobs if the rig is shut down? Who is entitled to Provident Fund benefits, and who is being denied them? These pressing concerns have now been brought to light by contract workers affiliated with the Shramik Kalyan Parishad (SKP), who have broken their silence in Shivsagar.

Adding to the pressure, Independent MLA Akhil Gogoi has accused ONGC and Indian technical teams of failing to control the gas emission at Bhatiapar. He claimed that despite repeated appeals, ONGC has not extended any compensation or aid to the affected local residents, while the state government has been the only agency offering support. Gogoi further revealed that he held discussions with the Chief Minister and issued directions to ONGC to bring in international experts within three days.

In a strong statement, the legislator also demanded the immediate arrest of Krishna Agarwal, the contractor overseeing the rig, holding him accountable for negligence and mismanagement leading to the crisis.

As public frustration grows and political scrutiny intensifies, ONGC now faces mounting pressure to act swiftly, transparently, and responsibly to resolve the situation and ensure the safety of both workers and surrounding communities.

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