Congress President Girish Baruah slams alleged misuse of public resources in Bongaigaon

OUR CORRESPONDENT

BONGAIGAON: Newly-appointed Bongaigaon district Congress President Girish Baruah raised serious concerns over the alleged mismanagement and misuse of government resources in the district. Addressing a press conference at Rajib Bhawan, Baruah criticized both the state government and local AGP representatives for their inaction on key civic issues.

“Several important public properties in Bongaigaon are either lying defunct or being handed over to private parties under dubious circumstances,” Baruah said, referring specifically to the Bongaigaon District Library, which he claimed has remained non-functional for the past three years.

“The library once served as an important public hall, useful for meetings and cultural events. A small investment in renovation could restore its utility for the public, administration, and civil society. Yet, no steps have been taken,” he added, pointing fingers at the ruling BJP-led Assam Government and long-serving AGP leaders, MP Phani Bhusan Choudhury and MLA Diptimayee Choudhury.

Baruah also raised concerns about the status of the Bongaigaon Circuit House, alleging that the government facility had been handed over to a private hotel operator, Jahnabi Regency, leading to a hike in room tariffs. “Circuit houses are intended for use by government officials, dignitaries, and social contributors. Privatizing such assets raises questions about the government’s intent and transparency,” he stated.

In addition, Baruah highlighted the continued use of rented buildings for government offices, even as several government school buildings remained unused due to recent amalgamation drives. “Why aren’t these vacant school premises being repurposed for office use? This reflects a clear case of resource mismanagement and waste of taxpayer money,” he questioned.

Baruah called on the government to adopt a rational strategy to ensure better utilization of public assets and urged the residents of Bongaigaon to stay vigilant about such issues. “The MP and MLA, both from the same political family and in power for four decades, have failed to address these lapses. It is time the people demand accountability,” he asserted.

Baruah’s appointment as district Congress President, part of a larger reshuffle initiated by newly-appointed Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Gaurav Gogoi, is seen as a significant move to challenge AGP’s longstanding stronghold in the region.

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