Assam Police Registers Case Against Pakistani National Ali Tauqeer Sheikh Under UAPA and BNS

Assam: The Assam Police has registered a case against Pakistani national Ali Tauqeer Sheikh and others under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). This action follows a decision taken by the Assam Cabinet on February 16, as confirmed by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday.

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Assam Police has filed an FIR under CID PS Case No. 05/2025 with charges under Sections 48, 152, 61, and 197(1) of BNS, 2023, read with Section 13(1) of the UAPA. Taking to social media platform X, CM Sarma stated, "In pursuance of the Cabinet decision taken yesterday, Assam Police has lodged an FIR against Ali Tauqeer Sheikh and unknown others."

Assam Government Orders Probe into Alleged ‘Anti-India Agenda’

During a recent cabinet meeting, the Assam government directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to conduct a comprehensive probe into Sheikh’s alleged anti-India activities. The investigation aims to determine whether these activities are part of a larger conspiracy and to identify any sympathizers or associates aiding Sheikh within Assam and across India.

Highlighting concerns over national security, the resolution passed by the Assam Cabinet stated that the state has historically remained a hotspot for ISI-sponsored activities, necessitating heightened vigilance and decisive action.

Political Fallout: CM Sarma Challenges Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi

Meanwhile, the case has sparked a political controversy, with CM Sarma challenging Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi over the latter’s remarks on legal action concerning allegations against him and his wife, Elizabeth Gogoi, a British national. Responding to media queries, Sarma welcomed any court proceedings, stating that it would expedite the investigation and bring transparency to the matter.

"India is a democratic country. If he (Gogoi) goes to court, it will be good, as it will allow many facts to come to light. If anyone is innocent, they will be declared so by the court. However, this matter needs to be investigated very seriously," Sarma asserted.

Allegations Against Ali Tauqeer Sheikh and His Links to Foreign Entities

According to the Assam Cabinet resolution, scrutiny of Sheikh’s social media activities and publicly available information indicate his connections with Elizabeth Gogoi, who was previously associated with Lead Pakistan, a climate-focused non-profit organization based in Islamabad.

The resolution further revealed that Sheikh has deep ties with the Pakistani government and leadership, having represented Pakistan on international platforms. His online activities reportedly include detailed commentary on India’s internal affairs and parliamentary matters, raising serious national security concerns.

Moreover, both Ali Sheikh and Elizabeth Gogoi have been linked to the Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN), a global climate action group operating in both India and Pakistan. The Assam government has raised apprehensions regarding the involvement of Pakistani-based entities in matters concerning India's internal affairs, questioning the actual intent and operations of such organizations.

State Government's Stand on National Security

Given the historical attempts by Pakistani state and non-state actors to destabilize Assam, the Assam Cabinet has taken a strong stance against any perceived foreign interference. The state government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring strict vigilance and swift action against elements threatening Assam’s security and communal harmony.

With the FIR now registered and investigations underway, the case is expected to take significant political and legal turns in the coming days.