Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) leader Lurinjyoti Gogoi has raised concerns over what he called the lack of proper recognition for celebrated athlete Uma Chetry, whose recent international achievements have brought pride to the state.
In a Facebook post addressed to Pijush Hazarika, a minister in the Assam government, Gogoi thanked him for officially recognizing the Assam Jatiya Parishad as a political party. “The person who for years insulted AJP as a club and called me its president has now officially recognized AJP as a political party—timing couldn’t be better. First of all, thank you,” Gogoi wrote.
However, Gogoi quickly shifted focus to the treatment of Uma Chetry, questioning why proper protocols and public acknowledgment were seemingly ignored during her homecoming. He asked whether ordinary citizens or political parties, rather than the government or sports authorities like the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) or Assam Cricket Association (ACA), were expected to inform the public about Assam’s champions.
The AJP leader also highlighted what he described as selective application of standard operating procedures (SOPs), pointing out that while SOPs are often cited for other events, Uma Chetry’s welcome lacked official recognition. “Why is it that SOPs are applied here and not there? This is a question the people of Assam deserve an answer to,” he added.
To make sure the athlete received a proper reception, AJP members personally visited her residence in Morigaon, ensuring she was acknowledged and celebrated for her achievements. Gogoi’s message also included a subtle invitation to Minister Hazarika to visit Morigaon, emphasizing that it is not far from his location and that the community would welcome his presence.