A recent photograph of Assam politician Benjamin Basumatary has stirred controversy on social media platforms, especially in the backdrop of the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. The image depicts Basumatary seemingly asleep on a heap of Rs 500 banknotes, triggering a flurry of reactions and speculations online.
According to a report by NDTV, Basumatary is embroiled in a significant corruption case related to the Prime Minister’s housing scheme and the rural jobs scheme. The photograph, which portrays him bare-chested and surrounded by cash, has raised questions about his involvement in alleged corrupt practices.
Basumatary, who was a suspended member of the United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL), a key ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Assam, found himself at the center of a storm following the emergence of the controversial image. The UPPL swiftly moved to disassociate itself from Basumatary, with party president Pramod Boro clarifying that Basumatary had been suspended from the party in January 2024. Furthermore, he was removed from his position as the chairman of the Village Council Development Committee in February 2024.
In a statement posted on social media, Boro emphasized that Basumatary’s actions were solely his responsibility and should not be linked with the UPPL. He urged media outlets and social media users to refrain from associating Basumatary with the party, highlighting that disciplinary action had been taken against him following internal party procedures.
Responding to allegations surrounding the authenticity of the photograph, the UPPL clarified that the image was taken five years ago during a social gathering and that the money featured in the picture belonged to Basumatary’s sister. Boro asserted that Basumatary had been subjected to blackmail using the photograph by unidentified individuals.
The controversy surrounding Basumatary’s photograph has reignited debates about political accountability and the spread of misinformation on social media. Critics have pointed out a perceived double standard in how political parties respond to allegations of misconduct, with accusations of selective outrage and deflection tactics being leveled against the BJP.
While the authenticity of the photograph remains a subject of debate, its emergence has underscored the need for greater transparency and accountability in political circles. As the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections approach, such incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of ethical conduct and integrity in public life.
