The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the alleged Pakistan connections of Gaurav Gogoi and his wife Elizabeth Gogoi has pinpointed Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, a Pakistani national and advisor to Pakistan’s Planning Commission, as a key figure in the case. Sheikh, closely associated with Elizabeth Gogoi and the founder of LEAD Pakistan where she worked, has been highlighted for his extensive social media commentary on India’s internal affairs and parliamentary issues. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed concerns over Sheikh’s online activities, suggesting a potential threat to India’s interests by interfering in domestic political and security matters.
The SIT findings reveal that Sheikh has established networks with Indian contacts through climate-change platforms and think tanks. It was disclosed that Sheikh and Elizabeth Gogoi were part of the CDKN climate network spanning India and Pakistan, with Assam authorities alleging that Sheikh utilized these connections to influence policy dialogues in India. An official release referenced by the SIT cautioned about Ali Sheikh’s “anti-India agenda” being supported by sympathizers within Assam and across the country.
CM Sarma emphasized that the investigation has uncovered alarming details indicating a conspiracy that goes beyond traditional espionage methods. He highlighted a new form of hostile activity that exploits transnational policy networks and NGOs instead of conventional spy tactics. Sarma informed reporters that the probe’s scope has expanded to involve national security concerns beyond Assam, with the matter now being referred to the Union Home Ministry.
The Chief Minister stressed the gravity of the situation, particularly due to the involvement of Pakistani national Ali Tauqeer Sheikh and Elizabeth Gogoi, the wife of Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi. Sarma underscored that the allegations, especially when linked to a sitting Member of Parliament like Gaurav Gogoi, elevate the issue to a significant level that surpasses routine investigations. The CM emphasized the seriousness of the matter, stating that any association between a sitting MP and Pakistan demands heightened attention and scrutiny.
