Assam MLA Akhil Gogoi Faces UAPA Charges in Anti-CAA Protests

A special NIA court has framed charges against Assam MLA Akhil Gogoi and three associates under UAPA and IPC for their role in anti-CAA protests. The court rejected some charges proposed by NIA. Gogoi plans to challenge the charges in the Gauhati High Court.

A special NIA court on Tuesday framed charges against Assam MLA Akhil Gogoi and his three associates related to the anti-CAA protests. Charges were framed under sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Indian Penal Code (IPC), highlighting the contentious nature of the legal proceedings.

According to Santanu Borthakur, Gogoi's counsel, the charges include Section 18 (conspiracy) of the UAPA and IPC sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 153A (promotion of enmity), and 153B, which deal with prejudicial assertions against national integration. Meanwhile, associates Dhaijya Konwar, Bittu Sonowal, and Manash Konwar face charges under UAPA's Section 18 and IPC's 120B.

Significantly, the court dismissed potential charges under UAPA Section 39 related to terrorism support and IPC section 124A (sedition). Gogoi expressed determination to challenge these accusations in the Gauhati High Court, emphasizing his fight against what he describes as a fascist, communal government.

(With inputs from agencies.)