Guwahati: Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) candidate from Central Guwahati, Kunki Choudhury, appeared at Panbazar Police Station on Saturday following allegations of violating the Model Code of Conduct during the ongoing Assembly elections.
After being questioned by the police, Choudhury told the media that he had complied with the notice and fully cooperated with the investigation. She said she had clearly presented all facts before the police and expressed satisfaction after clarifying his position.
Dismissing the allegations as “false and baseless,” Choudhury claimed that the charges were politically motivated and aimed at targeting her. She further stated that she had earlier lodged a complaint with the Kamrup (Metro) District Election Officer regarding related issues, which led to an official notice being issued by the administration.
Raising concerns over an alleged AI-generated fake video controversy, Choudhury accused the BJP’s IT cell of involvement and expressed dissatisfaction over the police’s inaction on her FIR. “Police say they are working on it, but no visible progress has been seen so far, which is mysterious,” she remarked, alleging harassment.
According to reports, a case (No. 74/26) has been registered against Choudhury at Panbazar Police Station under Sections 223(a)/174 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with provisions of the Representation of the People Acts of 1950, 1951, and 1989.
As per a notice issued under Section 35(3) of the BNSS, 2023 on April 11, she was directed to appear before the police on April 12 at 11 AM. The notice also instructed him to cooperate fully with the investigation, not to withhold information, influence witnesses, or tamper with evidence. It warned of arrest under Sections 35(5) and (6) of BNSS in case of non-compliance.
Sources said two main allegations have been raised against her: first, that her social media team remained active in Guwahati on the day of polling, which is considered a violation of election norms; and second, that she attempted to influence voters during the voting process. However, no confirmed evidence has been made public so far.
Meanwhile, her counsel Shantanu Borthakur termed the entire episode a “political conspiracy,” alleging that the charges were intended to harass the candidate. He also criticized the move of summoning a candidate late at night on polling day, calling it inappropriate in a democratic process.
Notably, tension had erupted outside Panbazar Police Station on the night of polling, adding to the charged political atmosphere in Guwahati. The incident, along with the AI video controversy and counter-allegations, has further intensified the post-poll political climate. The case is currently under investigation, and further clarity is expected once the probe is completed.
