Assam CM Urges Jayanta Malla to Apologise Over Remark on Journalist

Amid growing outrage across Assam’s media fraternity, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday stepped in to address the controversy surrounding Cabinet Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah’s alleged disparaging remarks against a journalist. Calling the comment “inappropriate,” the Chief Minister urged the minister to issue a public apology and expressed regret on his behalf.

“Jayanta Malla Baruah made a mistake— if he used the wrong words. No one is big or small in this society; everyone is equal,” CM Sarma told reporters. “If he has spoken poorly to a journalist, he should apologise. I too urge him to do so.”

The Chief Minister didn’t stop there. Taking moral responsibility, he added: “If Jayanta has erred, then I apologise as well. It was not right to speak to a journalist in such a manner.”

The incident dates back to June 27, 2025, when during a press conference on the ongoing Gir cow controversy, Minister Baruah allegedly referred to a journalist from the Sadin-Pratidin media group as a person of “lower class,” triggering widespread condemnation. The comment sparked state-wide protests by journalists and press associations, who have since demanded an official apology and accountability.

Chief Minister Sarma also took the opportunity to draw a critical distinction between working journalists and media ownership. “In our political battles, journalists are not the target. I haven't personally heard the comment, but if inappropriate language was used against media persons, it must be corrected,” he said. “But don’t get involved in conflicts between politicians and media owners. I speak against owners when needed—let that chapter stay separate.”

In his remarks, the CM also touched on the cultural dimension of the backlash, especially given recent tensions involving Assamese heritage. Referring to the Assamese dictionary Hemkosh, which had come under political discussion earlier, he said, “Hemkosh is a national treasure. Matters of such significance should never be dragged into controversy.”

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