Gaurav Gogoi on Monday, May 11 said the Assam Congress has begun an introspection process following the Assembly election results, while asserting that the party would continue to raise issues concerning the people of the state.

Speaking in Guwahati ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of Chief Minister-designate Himanta Biswa Sarma, Gogoi said the newly elected BJP-led government must focus on public welfare and women’s safety after securing a third consecutive term in the Assembly elections.

“We have started introspection after the poll results; people are still finding it difficult to accept the outcome. We will continue to raise the voice of the people of Assam,” Gogoi said.

He stated that public interest should remain the primary focus of governance in a democracy and urged the incoming government to address the expectations of the people.

“People’s interests matter most in a democracy. The government must fulfil the expectations of the people of Assam,” he said.

Referring to women voters in the state, Gogoi noted that a significant number had supported the BJP in the elections, but maintained that women’s safety continued to remain a major concern in Assam.

“The women of Assam have voted for the BJP. But the security of women remains a critical issue in Assam,” he said.

Gogoi also urged the Assam Police to function independently and prioritise public security responsibilities over political considerations.

“I am assuming Assam Police, instead of acting as agents of the BJP, will in the future be strictly ordered to focus on the security of women,” he added.

The remarks came a day before Sarma is scheduled to take oath as Chief Minister for a third consecutive term under the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The swearing-in ceremony is set to be held at Veterinary College Field in Khanapara, Guwahati, on May 12.