Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has made serious allegations against Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, claiming that his wife, Elizabeth Colburn, was employed by a Pakistan-based firm, and that her salary was paid by Ali Sheikh. Sarma's claims have ignited a political controversy, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest and national security.

Sarma has stated that Colburn, a British citizen, had professional ties with Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, who is described as a key advisor to Pakistan's Planning Commission. According to Sarma, Sheikh also founded LEAD Pakistan, a non-profit organization focused on climate change, and Colburn was an integral part of the organization during her time in Islamabad. Both Sheikh and Colburn were reportedly part of a global climate action group called the Climate and Development Knowledge Network, which operates in India.

These allegations have led to speculation about Colburn's relationship with Pakistani entities, especially given Gogoi's position as a high-ranking member of the opposition in the Lok Sabha. Sarma has questioned whether such associations could compromise Gogoi's political role and potentially pose a threat to national security. He also pointed out the differences in rules for foreign marriages between Indian Foreign Service officers and Indian lawmakers, seemingly implying a double standard.

The Assam Chief Minister has claimed that Congress had not "denied his prolonged stay in Pakistan" and alleged that “his wife draws a salary from a Pakistan-based NGO". He has also said that a senior Congress leader made a "startling confession" that Gogoi's wife was on the "payroll of the Pakistan government". Sarma maintains that they were not "previously aware of these details" and the statement of Congress leader Ripun Bora will be recorded and further action taken in the matter.

Furthermore, Sarma has alleged that Gogoi raised questions in Parliament on sensitive defense matters after his marriage to a British citizen. He also claimed that in 2015, the Pakistani High Commissioner to India invited Gogoi to discuss India-Pakistan relations at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.

These are serious allegations that deserve a thorough investigation. The implications of a Member of Parliament's family member having ties to a foreign country, particularly Pakistan, are significant and could have far-reaching consequences. It remains to be seen how this controversy will unfold and what impact it will have on Indian politics.