Assam CM’s Golaghat Visit Met With Protest Over Gir Cow Row

Protests erupted across Assam on Monday as Congress workers launched statewide demonstrations over the alleged sale of Gir cows to local legislators and ministers — a controversy that has sparked political uproar in recent weeks.

The protests gained particular intensity in Golaghat, where Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was scheduled to inaugurate a new indoor stadium at the GDSA Complex, located in close proximity to the district Congress office. Anticipating the CM's arrival, Congress supporters gathered in large numbers, demanding accountability and a formal inquiry into the so-called "Goru Sur" (cow scandal).

Holding placards and raising slogans, protesters accused the government of shielding powerful individuals linked to the scandal while clamping down on public dissent.

“The Chief Minister is coming to Golaghat today, and we want answers. This scandal has rocked the state. Big names — ministers and MLAs — are being linked. When will there be a proper investigation?” asked a senior Congress worker at the protest site.

Another protester expressed frustration over what they described as growing authoritarianism:

“Today, we can’t even question our own leaders. When the 'Roja' comes, the 'Proja' are harassed. Is this democracy? Will the government arrest the culprits involved in the Gir cow scandal, or will it continue to intimidate us in the name of inquiry?”

The situation grew tense near the GDSA Complex as police stepped up security ahead of the Chief Minister’s visit. Protesters claimed they were being restricted from exercising their democratic right to dissent.

Congress leaders alleged that the state machinery is being used to suppress voices that seek answers about the alleged misappropriation and sale of Gir cows — a breed traditionally known for its high milk yield and cultural significance.

Protests Spill into Other Districts

The wave of discontent was not limited to Golaghat. Similar demonstrations were reported in multiple districts including Lakhimpur, Nagaon, Guwahati, where party workers staged sit-ins and raised slogans demanding transparency, accountability, and legal action against those allegedly involved.

The Congress party has called for an independent investigation into the Gir cow sale scandal and has accused the BJP-led government of protecting influential figures at the cost of public trust.

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