Dissidents against Gogoi's style of functioning

Guwahati, Apr 26 (UNI) Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has faced revolt, first time in 12 years, with four dissidents meeting Congress President Sonia Gandhi against him.

Both sitting MPs Silvius Condpan and Kirip Chaliha along with former MPs Dwijendranath Sarma and Bishnu Prasad, met Ms Gandhi at New Delhi yesterday to protest against Mr Gogoi's 'style of functioning'.

However, Mr Gogoi played it down and refused to take serious note of the issue when approached by mediapersons.

Though many party leaders were tightlipped on Ms Gandhi's response, Mr Chaliha has officially confirmed their meeting.

Sources within the party said the MPs placed their grievances and suggestions to strengthen the Congress in Assam, adding that the dissidents sought a total revamp of the organisational setup.

''Yes, we have declared war against Mr Gogoi,'' Mr Chaliha said promising more action in coming months.

When asked about the Congress president's reaction, he said, ''We were upbeat after the meeting.The prime grouse of the Congressmen was Mr Gogoi's style of functioning and the raw deal being meted out to those who opposed him.'' ''Anybody who does not exhibit personal loyalty is being sidelined and concerted effort is made to belittle them,'' he added.

Significantly, the four leaders advocated a political tie up with AUDF.

Mr Gogoi had been resisting pressure within his party for an alliance with AUDF and advocating its merger with the Congress.

Meanwhile, the Chief Ministers supporters were planning a counter attack and a signature campaign against the dissidents while a batch of MPs and MLAs will head for the Centre soon to meet Ms Gandhi.

Sources within the Congress said it would be unlikely that any change of guard would take place before the next Lok Sabha polls.

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